CHINCHOLI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

PRELIMS BITS

The Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Kalburgi District of North Karnataka and was declared a sanctuary in 2011. It holds the distinction of being the first dryland wildlife sanctuary in South India.

Geographical Features:

• Location: Kalburgi District, North Karnataka.
• Vegetation: The sanctuary features a mix of dry deciduous and moist deciduous forests in the core area, with Acacia and Teak plantations on its fringes.

Flora:

• Red Sanders and Sandalwood are the major flora species found in the sanctuary, both of which are economically and ecologically important.

Fauna:

The sanctuary is home to diverse wildlife, including:

• Black Buck
• Four-horned Antelope
• Fruit Bat
• Hyena
• Indian Wolf
• Other species characteristic of the dry deciduous ecosystem.

Key Highlights:

• Chandrampalli Dam: The dam plays a crucial role in providing water to the sanctuary, supporting both wildlife and local biodiversity.
• Local Tribes: The Lambani Tandas, local tribal communities, reside in the area and are an integral part of the region’s cultural fabric.

Recent Development:

• The Karnataka Forest Department has recently initiated talks to relocate the Sheribikanahalli hamlet, which is located within the boundaries of the Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary, in an effort to balance conservation efforts with human habitation.