Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary

Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary Latest News

The Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is set to host the second edition of the two-day ‘Indian Bison Fest’.

About Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary

• It is situated in the Bargarh district of Odisha.
• It is located near Hirakud Dam (the longest dam in India and the longest earthen dam in the world) on the Mahanadi River.
• It finds a special mention because of noted freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai. 
• During his rebellion against the British, his base at Barapathara was located within the sanctuary.
• Vegetation: Most of the plant sanctuary is covered with mixed and dry deciduous forest. 
• Flora: Major trees found here are Sal, Asana, Bija, Aanla, Dhaura, etc.
• Fauna: 
  • Indian leopards, sloth bears, chousingha (four-horned antelope), sambar deer, gaurs (Indian bison), wild boars, and Indian wild dogs (dholes) are among the notable animal residents.
  • It is one of the most flocked wintering grounds of migratory birds that visit the sanctuary from far-off places.
  • Some of the most prominent among them are the crested serpent eagle, Flower Peckers, red-vented bulbul, tree pie, drongo, and white eye oriental.

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Key Facts about Indian Bison

• The Indian Bison, also known as Gaur, is the largest species among the wild cattle and the Bovidae.
• Gaur are strong and mightily built, with a high grey ridge on their forehead between their horns, which curve upwards from the sides of the head. 
• Distribution: Gaurs are indigenous to the South and Southeast parts of Asia.
• Habitat:
  • Gaurs are primarily found in evergreen and semi-evergreen forests along with moist deciduous forests with open grasslands.
  • They prefer hilly terrains below an altitude of 1,500-1,800 m with large and undisturbed forest tracts and abundant water.
• Conservation Status:
  • IUCN Red List: Vulnerable.

Source: NIE