MAHADEI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

By Aditi Malhotra

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Mahadei Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the state of Goa, is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts Spread over an area of 208 sq km, this sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. It was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1999 and is one of the most visited wildlife sanctuaries in Goa.

The Mahadei Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its biodiversity. The sanctuary is a part of the Western Ghats Biological Diversity hotspot and is home to several rare and endangered species of plants and animals. The sanctuary is located in the Sattari taluka of North Goa and is surrounded by the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park on one side and the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary on the other Flora and Fauna

The Mahadei Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its rich flora and fauna. The sanctuary is home to over 450 species of plants, including rare and endangered species like Garcinia Indica, Terminalia Paniculata, and Palaquium ellipticum. The sanctuary is also home to several species of medicinal plants like the Strychnos Nux-vomica, Hemidesmus Indicus, and Gymnema Sylvestre.

The sanctuary is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts as it is home to several species of animals. The most popular among these are the Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Indian Bison, and Sloth Bear. The sanctuary is also home to several species of primates like the Bonnet Macaque, Hanuman Langur, and the Common Langur Other species of animals found in the sanctuary include the Wild Boar, Sambar Deer, Barking Deer, and the Malabar Giant Squirrel.

Activities

The Mahadei Wildlife Sanctuary offers visitors a range of activities to choose from Visitors can go on nature walks, treks, and hikes to explore the sanctuary's rich flora and fauna. The sanctuary has several trekking trails that take visitors through the heart of the sanctuary, allowing them to observe the wildlife up close

The sanctuary also has several camping sites where visitors can spend the night under the stars. Camping in the sanctuary is a great way to experience nature and wildlife up close. Visitors can also go bird watching in the sanctuary, which is home to several species of birds like the Malabar Pied Hornbill, the Indian Grey Hornbill, and the Blue-Bearded BeeEater.

Conservation Efforts

The Mahadei Wildlife Sanctuary is an important conservation area and several measures have been taken to protect its flora and fauna. The sanctuary is a part of the Western Ghats, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is therefore protected under international law. The sanctuary is also a part of the Mahadei Wildlife Conservation Plan, which is a joint effort by the Government of Goa and various NGOs to conserve the wildlife in the sanctuary.

The sanctuary is also home to several ecodevelopment projects that promote sustainable development and conservation. The eco-development projects aim to provide employment opportunities to the local communities while also promoting conservation and sustainable development Conclusion

The Mahadei Wildlife Sanctuary is a treasure trove of biodiversity and a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts The sanctuary offers visitors a chance to experience nature up close and observe the wildlife in their natural habitat. The sanctuary's rich flora and fauna, along with its several activities, make it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation

Visitors to the Mahadei Wildlife Sanctuary must respect the sanctuary's rules and regulations and follow the guidelines for ecotourism. By doing so, they can help protect this beautiful sanctuary and the wildlife that calls it home