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Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary

A 55-year-old farmer was mauled to death by a leopard in a field adjoining a forest area here under the Kakraha Range of the Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary recently.

About Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Upper Gangetic plain, near Bahraich city in Bahraich district of Uttar Pradesh, India.
  • It covers an area of approximately 400.6 square kilometers and was established in 1975.
  • In 1987, it was brought under Project Tiger and now forms part of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, along with Dudhwa National Park and Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary.​
Location and Ecosystem
  • The sanctuary lies in the Terai region, characterized by a mosaic of Sal and Teak forests, lush grasslands, swamps, and wetlands.​
  • The Girwa River flows through the sanctuary, supporting a rich and diverse ecosystem.​
  • It serves as a vital corridor connecting tiger habitats in India and Nepal, especially with Bardia National Park.​
Biodiversity
  • The sanctuary is home to several endangered species, including the gharial, tiger, rhinoceros, Gangetic dolphin, swamp deer, hispid hare, Bengal florican, and vultures (white-backed and long-billed).​
  • Other notable fauna include chital, hog deer, wild boar, leopard, jackal, langur, porcupine, otter, and various reptiles such as mugger crocodile, rock python, and king cobra.​
  • The sanctuary also hosts a rich avifauna, including migratory birds and species like the Oriental Pied Hornbill and Red jungle fowl.​
Conservation and Tourism
  • Katarniaghat is a core area of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve and plays a crucial role in the conservation of several threatened species.​
  • The sanctuary offers eco-tourism activities such as jungle jeep safaris, elephant rides, river and boat safaris, and opportunities to experience the local Tharu tribal culture.​
  • The area is well-preserved and less crowded, making it ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.​
Key Points
  • Established: 1975
  • Area: 400.6 sq km
  • Part of: Dudhwa Tiger Reserve
  • Key species: Tiger, rhino, gharial, Gangetic dolphin, swamp deer, vultures
  • Ecosystem: Sal and Teak forests, grasslands, swamps, wetlands
  • Connectivity: Links Dudhwa and Kishanpur (India) with Bardia National Park (Nepal)​
Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary is a significant conservation area in northern India, supporting a wide range of flora and fauna and serving as a vital ecological link between India and Nepal.

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