Asola-Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary

Asola-Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary Latest News

Abandoned mining areas in the Asola-Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary have emerged as the most bird-rich habitat studied in the area, with researchers finding that former quarries now support a diverse mix of scrub, grassland, rocky patches and water pools.

About Asola-Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary

• It is strategically located in the southern part of Delhi, bordering the state of Haryana.
• It lies on the Southern Delhi Ridge of the Aravalli hill range.
• It covers an area of 32.71 sq.km.
• The sanctuary’s core area begins near the ancient Tughlaqabad Fort and extends southward, encompassing the abandoned mining pits of Bhatti that have now become wetlands attracting diverse birdlife.  
• It is also a vital part of the Northern Aravalli leopard wildlife corridor that starts from the Sariska National Park in Rajasthan, passing through various districts of Haryana and finally meeting at the Delhi Ridge. 
• In Delhi, Sanctuary passes through historical sites such as Chattarpur Temple, Tughlakabad, Surajkund, Anangpur Dam, and Adilabad Ruins.
• The sanctuary’s terrain is characterized by the typical Aravalli landscape – rocky hills with gentle slopes, deep valleys, and seasonal streams that flow during monsoon.  
• The sanctuary’s location in the Aravalli range is ecologically significant because these hills act as a barrier against desertification from the west and help moderate Delhi’s climate. 
• Flora: 
  • The semi-arid forest vegetation of the Aravali region provides homes to certain plant species. 
  • It includes dhak (flame of the forest), babool (Acacia), khejri, and various shrubs and grasses that are well-adapted to dry conditions.
• Fauna: 
  • It is home to a wide variety of animals, including the Indian leopard, jackal, Indian blue bull, sambar deer, wild boar, and mongoose. 
  • It is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 200 species of birds spotted here, including the Indian peafowl, crested serpent-eagle, and Indian roller.
  • Reptiles such as the monitor lizard, Indian cobra, and Russell’s viper can also be found here.

News: PTI

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