Konark-Balukhand Sanctuary Latest News
The spotted deer, once the pride of the Konark-Balukhand Wildlife Sanctuary, appears to be dwindling fast in numbers.Â
About Konark-Balukhand Sanctuary
- Location: It is located in Puri district, Odisha.
- It was declared a sanctuary on 23 April 1984.
- It was established on the sandy tract covered by plantation of casurina and cashew trees, along the coast between Puri and Konark.Â
- Rivers: It is traversed by the rivulets such as Nuanai River, Kusabhadra River, Kadua River, and Prachi River.
- Flora: Jamun, ficus, neem, karanj, and polang trees are also found, mostly along the course of the Kusabhadra and Nuanai rivers.
- Fauna: It is home to herds of herbivores (spotted deer), monkeys, jungle cat, hyena, monitor lizard, snakes, etc.Â
- Olive Ridley sea turtles have been seen nesting on the beach.
Key Facts about Spotted Deer
- It is the most common deer species in Indian forests.
- Distribution: It is widely distributed in Asia, especially in India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and a small group in Pakistan.
- Conservation Status: IUCN Red List: Least Concern
Source: Telegraph
Konark-Balukhand Sanctuary FAQs
Q1: Where is the Konark-Balukhand Wildlife Sanctuary located?
Ans: Puri district, Odisha
Q2: What type of ecosystem does the sanctuary primarily consist of?
Ans: Marine ecosystem and coastal forests
