Konark-Balukhand Sanctuary

Konark-Balukhand Sanctuary Latest News

The spotted deer, once the pride of the Konark-Balukhand Wildlife Sanctuary, appears to be dwindling fast in numbers. 

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. 
• 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. 
• 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

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