Biosphere Reserves, Wildlife Sanctuaries, National Parks and Zoos

1. Govt. College Of Teacher Education, Thycaud
Assignment
Biosphere Reserve, Wildlife Sanctuaries,
National Parks And Zoos
SUBMITTED BY:
GAYATHRI DEVI A.J
B.Ed NATURAL SCIENCE

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INDEX
PARTICULARS PAGE NO:
Introduction 3
India and Biodiversity 4
Threats to Biodiversity 5
Conservation of Biodiversity 6
Wildlife Resources 7
Biosphere Reserves 8
List of Biosphere Reserves of India 9
Biosphere Reserves in Kerala 10
Wildlife Sanctuaries 14
Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala 16
National Parks 24
List of National Parks in Kerala 34
Difference between Biosphere Reserves, Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks 35
Zoos 37
Zoos in Kerala 39
Conclusion 41
References 42

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BIOSPHERE RESERVES,
WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES,
NATIONAL PARKS AND ZOOS

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INTRODUCTION
Biological diversity - or biodiversity - is the term given to the variety of life on Earth and
the natural patterns it forms. The term biodiversity was coined as a contraction of biological
diversity by E.O. Wilson in 1985. Biodiversity may be defined as the variety and variability of
living organisms and the ecological complexes in which they exist. In other words, biodiversity
is the occurrence of different types of ecosystems, different species of organisms with the whole
range of their variants and genes adapted to different climates, environments along with their
interactions and processes.
Biodiversity includes the genetic variability (for which different varieties of spices have
appeared in the course of evolution) and diversity of life forms such as plants, animal microbes,
etc. living in a wide range of ecosystems. The biodiversity we see today is the fruit of billions of
years of evolution, shaped by natural processes and, increasingly, by the influence of humans. It
forms the web of life of which we are an integral part and upon which we so fully depend. This
diversity is often understood in terms of the wide variety of plants, animals and microorganisms.
It is the combination of life forms and their interactions with each other and with the rest of the
environment that has made Earth a uniquely habitable place for humans. Biodiversity provides a
large number of goods and services that sustain our lives.
Protecting biodiversity is in our self-interest. Biological resources are the pillars upon
which we build civilizations. Nature's products support such diverse industries as agriculture,
cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, pulp and paper, horticulture, construction and waste treatment. The
loss of biodiversity threatens our food supplies, opportunities for recreation and tourism, and
sources of wood, medicines and energy. It also interferes with essential ecological functions.

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Environmentalists might define biodiversity as the total of all plant and animal life of the
planet, and the planet itself – the air, water and land that supports animal and plant life. This
diversity of living creatures forms a support system which has been used by each civilization for
its growth and development. The rich biodiversity has been instrumental in providing humanity
with food security, health care and industrial goods that has led to high standard of living in the
modern world. Ironically it has also produced the modern consumerist society which is adversely
affecting the diversity of biological resources upon which it is based. The diversity of life on
earth is so rich that if we use it sustainably we can go on developing new products for
generations. For this reason, we must realize the importance of biodiversity as an important
resource.
India and Biodiversity
India, a mega diverse nation, is one of the richest nations in terms of biological diversity.
India owes this to its position in the tropical and subtropical latitudes. India has a great diversity
of natural ecosystems ranging from the cold and high Himalayan regions to the sea coasts; from
the wet north-eastern green forests to the dry northwestern arid deserts; with different types of
forests, wetlands, islands and the oceans. India consists of fertile river plains and high plateaus
and several major rivers, including the Ganges, Brahmaputra and Indus. The diverse physical
features and climatic situations have formed ecological habitats like forests, grasslands,
wetlands, coastal and marine ecosystems and desert ecosystems, which harbour and sustain
immense biodiversity. The country is also one of the 12 primary centres of origin of cultivated
plants and domesticated animals.

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India has to its credit a large number of national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and Hotspots
of the estimated 10 million species worldwide, only 1.7 million have been described till today.
The distribution of these species is highly uneven. About seven percent of the world's land is
home to over half of the worlds species. The tropics alone account to 5 million species. India
contributes significantly to the latitudinal biodiversity trend. With just 2.4% of the world's areas,
India accounts to 7.31% of the world's species which number around 89,431.
Threats to Biodiversity
Extinction is a natural part of life on Earth. Over the history of the planet most of the
species that ever existed, evolved and then gradually went extinct. Species go extinct because of
natural shifts in the environment that take place over long periods of time, such as ice ages.
Today, species are going extinct at an accelerated and dangerous rate, because of non-natural
environmental changes caused by human activities.
Some of the activities have direct effects on species and ecosystems, such as:
a) Habitat loss/ degradation
b) Over exploitation (such as overfishing)
c) Spread of Non-native Species/ Diseases
Some human activities have indirect but wide-reaching effects on biodiversity, including:
a) Climate change
b) Pollution

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Because of our actions, natural evolution will not be able to replace the species we have
caused to become extinct and rebuild the ecosystems that we have destroyed, unless we change
our actions to stop the following types of biodiversity loss.
All of these threats have put a serious strain on the diversity of species on Earth.
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), globally about one
third of all known species are threatened with extinction. That includes 29% of all amphibians,
21% of all mammals and 12% of all birds. If we do not stop the threats to biodiversity, we could
be facing another mass extinction with dire consequences to the environment and human health
and livelihood
Unsustainable human development has placed severe pressure on biodiversity. Based on
current trends, an estimated 34,000 plant and 5,200 animal species – including one in eight of the
world's bird species – face extinction. It is estimated that one species becomes extinct every 20
minutes.
Conservation of Biodiversity
Biodiversity as genetic species and as intact ecosystems can be best preserved in-situ by
setting aside an adequate representation of wilderness as Protected Areas. These include national
parks and wildlife sanctuaries which receive protection from governmental and international
agencies. However, there are situations in which an endangered species is so close to extinction
that unless alternate methods are instituted, the species may be rapidly driven to extinction. This
strategy is known as ex-situ conservation. Botanical gardens and zoological parks are set up for
multiplying species of plants and animals in artificially – managed conditions.

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Conservation of biodiversity is protection, upliftment and scientific management of
biodiversity so as to maintain it at its threshold level and derive sustainable benefits for the
present and future generation. In other words, conservation of bio-diversity is the proper
management of the biosphere by human beings in such a way that it gives maximum benefits for
the present generation and also develops its potential so as to meet the needs of the future
generations.
Mainly the conservation of biodiversity has three basic objectives:
(a) To maintain essential ecological processes and life supporting systems.
(b) To preserve the diversity of species.
(c) To make sustainable utilization of species and ecosystems.
WILDLIFE RESOURCES
Wild life resources include all animals, which grow and propagate naturally without any
sort of human interference. They remain in wild form without any sort of friendly association
with man. Invariably they are in forests. Wildlife serves as a resource to maintain the ecological
balance as well as source of entertainment besides acting as source to produce the meat, skins
and other animal products. The animal species like lion, tiger, cheetah, deer, bear, jackal and
number of wild birds are included in wild life wealth. Although 'wildlife' refers to any form of
life living in its wild or natural habitat, 'wildlife' in practice means a group of animals living in
forests or other natural habitats. It usually signifies the animals in wild form without being
domesticated.
Plant and Animal Species can be classified as:

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Normal Species: Species whose population levels are considered to be normal for their survival
Eg: Cattle, sal, pine, rodents
Endangered Species: These are species which are in danger of extinction. Eg: black buck,
crocodile, Indian wild ass, Indian rhino, lion tailed macaque, sangai (brow anter deer in Manipur)
Vulnerable Species: These are species whose population has declined to levels from where it is
likely to move into the endangered category in the near future if the negative factors continue to
operate. Eg: blue sheep, Asiatic elephant, Gangetic dolphin
Rare Species: Species with small population may move into the endangered or vulnerable
category if the negative factors affecting them continue to operate. Eg: Himalayan brown bear,
wild Asiatic buffalo, desert fox and hornbill
Endemic Species: These are species which are only found in some particular areas usually
isolated by natural or geographical barriers. Eg: The Andaman teal, Nicobar pigeon, Andaman
wild pig, mithun in Arunchal Pradesh.
Extinct Species: These are species which are not found after searches of known or likely areas
where they may occur. A species may be extinct from a local area, region, country, continent or
the entire earth. Eg: Asiatic cheetah, pink head duck.
BIOSPHERE RESERVES
Biosphere Reserves are large areas of bio diversity where flora and fauna are protected.
These regions of environmental protection roughly correspond to IUCN Category V Protected
areas. The Indian government has established 18 Biosphere Reserves of India, which protect
larger areas of natural habitat (than a National Park or Wildlife Sanctuary).Biosphere Reserves of
India often include one or more National Parks or sanctuaries. Protection is granted not only to

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the flora and fauna of the protected region, but also to the human communities who inhabit these
regions, and their ways of life.
List of Biosphere Reserves of India
Nine of the eighteen biosphere reserves of India are a part of the World Network of
Biosphere Reserves, based on the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme
.Biosphere Reserves in bold are part of World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
SL.
NO
YEAR NAME STATE TYPE KEY FAUNA
1 2008 Great Rann of Kutch Gujarat Desert Indian Wild Ass
2 1989 Gulf of Mannar Tamil Nadu Coasts Dugong or Sea Cow
3 1989 Sundarbans West Bengal Gangetic
Delta
Royal Bengal Tiger
4 2009 Cold Desert Himachal Pradesh Western
Himalayas
Snow Leopard
5 1988 Nanda Devi Uttarakhand Western
Himalayas
NA
6 1986 Nilgiri Biosphere
Reserve
Tamil Nadu,
Kerala and
Karnataka
Western
Ghats
Nilgiri Tahr, Lion-tailed
macaque
7 1998 Dihang-Dibang Arunachal Pradesh Eastern
Himalaya
NA
8 1999 Pachmarhi Biosphere Madhya Pradesh Semi-Arid Giant Squirrel, Flying Squirrel

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Reserve
9 2010 Seshachalam Hills Andhra Pradesh Eastern Ghats NA
10 1994 Simlipal Odisha Deccan
Peninsula
Gaur, Royal Bengal
Tiger, Wild elephant
11 2005 Achanakamar -
Amarkantak
Madhya Pradesh,
Chhattisgarh
Maikala
Hills
NA
12 1989 Manas Assam East
Himalayas
Golden Langur, Red Panda
13 2000 Khangchendzonga Sikkim East
Himalayas
Snow Leopard, Red Panda
14 2001 Agasthyamalai
Biosphere Reserve
Kerala, Tamil Nadu Western
ghats
Nilgiri Tahr, Elephants
15 1989 Great Nicobar
Biosphere Reserve
Andaman and
Nicobar Islands
Islands Saltwater Crocodile
16 1988 Nokrek Meghalaya East
Himalayas
Red Panda
17 1997 Dibru-Saikhowa Assam East
Himalayas
Golden Langur
18 2011 Panna Madhya Pradesh Ken River Tiger, Chital,
Chinkara, Sambharand Sloth bear
BIOSPHERE RESERVES IN KERALA
The Indian government has established 18 Biosphere Reserves of India, which protect
larger areas of natural and often include one or more National Parks and/or preserves, along

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buffer zones that are open to some economic uses. Protection is granted not only to the flora and
fauna of the protected region, but also to the human communities who inhabit these regions, and
their ways of life. Of these two were located in Kerala.
Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve
The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is an International Biosphere Reserve in the Western Ghats,
Nilgiri Hills range of South India location: The reserve encompasses 5,520 km² in the states of
Tamil Nadu (2537.6 km²), Karnataka (1527.4 km²) and Kerala (1455.4 km²). It forms an almost
complete ring around the Nilgiri Plateau.
This is home for a variety of animals-the lion-tailed macaque in the evergreen forests, the
Nilgiri tahr in the grassy downs, the black buck in the dry scrub and the tiger and the elephant
throughout the region. To the north, the biosphere reserve begins in the Nagarhole National Park
of Karnataka and the adjoining Wayanad sanctuary of Kerala. The moist deciduous forests and
teak plantations of Nagarhole harbours abundant population of gaur, spotted deer, sambar and
wild pig which support a sizeable number of carnivores such as tiger and leopard.
The biosphere reserve is split into four major zones viz. (i) Core Zone- 1240.3 sq. km.
(22.5%) (ii) Manipulation forestry Zone-3238.7 sq. km (58.6%) (iii) Tourism Zone- 335.0 sq.
km. (6.1%) (iv) Restoration Zone- 706.4 sq. km. (12.8%)
Protected Areas: Mudumalai wild life sanctuary and national park (321.1 km²), Wayanad
wildlife sanctuary ( 344km²), Bandipur national park (874km²), Nagarhole national park (643
km²), Nugu wild life sanctuary, Mukurthi national park (78 km²) and Silent Valley national park
(89.52km²) are protected areas within this reserve. The Biosphere Reserve also includes zones of

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the Nilgiris open to forestry and tourism including: Nilgiris District (North (448.3 km²) and
Nilgiris District South (198.8 km²)), Erode District (Sathyamangalam forest (745.9km²) and
Erode (49.3 km²)) and Coimbatore District (696.2 km²) in Tamil Nadu.
Fauna and Flora: Fauna includes over 100 species of mammals, 350 species of birds, 80 species
of reptiles; about 39 species of fish, 31 amphibians, 60 species of reptiles 316 species of
butterflies and innumerable invertebrates. Rare animals include the tiger and the Nilgiri Tahr.
The reserve has very rich plant diversity. Of 3300 species, 1232 are endemic. Conservation of
wildlife is the main objective of these national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Some of these
areas have been designated by the government as Project Tiger and Project Elephant areas.
Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve
The Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve (ABR) was established in 2001 and includes
3,500.36 km2 out of which 1828 km² is in Kerala and 1672.36 km² is in Tamil Nadu. The
Western Ghats,
This biosphere reserve straddles the border of Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram districts
in Kerala and Tirunelveli and Kanyakumari districts in Tamil Nadu, South India at the southern
end of the Western Ghats. It is composed of Neyyar, Peppara and Shendurney wildlife
Sanctuaries and their adjoining areas of Achencoil, Thenmala, Konni, Punalur,
Thiruvananthapuram divisions and Agasthyavanam special division in Kerala. It is the habitat for
2,000 varieties of medicinal plants, of which at least 50 are rare and endangered species. Rare
animals include the tiger, Asian Elephant, and Nilgiri Tahr. Agastyamalai is also home to the
Kanikaran, one of the oldest surviving ancient tribes in the world. The Biosphere reserve is split

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into three major zones viz. Core Zone, Buffer Zone and Transition Zone. In Kerala the break up
for the above three zones are as follows
(i) Core Zone -352 Sq. Km- this zone of the Biosphere Reserve will be kept free from all human
pressures external to the system.
(ii) Buffer Zone 691 Sq. Km- The manipulation activities, which may be permitted in the buffer
zone, will be in conformity with general guidelines for management of the Bio-sphere Reserve
(iii) Transition Zone 1828 Sq. Km- The state governments will further demarcate the heavily
populated / disturbed areas of the buffer Zone to be designated as transitition / restoration zone
for priority intervention to restore / improve the general condition in accordance with the
guidelines. The sanctuaries covered are Neyyar, Peppara and Shendurney sanctuaries.
The sanctuaries covered are Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu. This
region, extending to nearly 3,500 sq. km., is considered the richest bio-geographic province in
the Indian sub-continent.
Protected Area: The protected areas of the reserve include Neyyar, Peppara and Shenduruny
wildlife sanctuaries of Kerala and Kalakkad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve of Tamil Nadu.
Fauna and Flora: The site represents the richest centre of endemic plants, abode of all vegetation
types met within the peninsula, richest repository of medicinal plants, the southern-most haven
of endangered animals including primates, amphibians, reptiles and fishes and a treasure house
of wild relatives of domesticated crops.

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WILD LIFE SANCTUARIES
India has 515 animal sanctuaries, referred to as wildlife sanctuaries (under IUCN
category IV protected area).Among these are 48 Tiger Reserves which are governed by Project
Tiger and are of special significance in the conservation of tiger. Many national parks were
initially Wild Life sanctuaries. Some wildlife sanctuaries are specifically named bird sanctuary,
e.g., Keoladeo National Park before attaining National Park status.
A sanctuary is a protected place or area with Natural environment having optimum
conditions and protection for wild animals. Shooting and hunting are prohibited in a sanctuary.
But the degree of protection is lower than a national park. Manipulation up to an extent is
allowed with permission of competent authority which does not harm wild life. Operations such
as harvesting of timber, collection of minor forest products and private ownership rights are
allowed so long as they do not affect the animals adversely. A sanctuary is established by
notification of the state Forest Department and can be abolished by similar procedure. The main
purpose is to provide protection to wild and indigenous animals. The conservative measures
taken by the Indian Government for the conservation of Tigers was awarded by a 30% rise in the
number of tigers in 2015.
Wildlife sanctuaries are of national importance to conservation, usually due to some
flagship faunal species, are named National Wildlife Sanctuary, like the tri-state National
Chambal (Gharial) Wildlife Sanctuary for conserving the gharial.
Wildlife Sanctuaries of India
Jim Corbett National Park, Uttaranchal

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Corbett National park is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in India. It was established
in the year 1921. Today it is one of the most popular and most frequented wildlife sanctuary in
India. Every year, thousands of tourists not only from India but abroad visit this place and spend
some time in tranquility of Mother Nature.
Gir National Park and Sanctuary, Sasangir, Gujarat
Apart from all the wildlife sanctuaries in India, Gir national park is the only place to spot
Asiatic lion in the world. This is the natural habitat of Asiatic lion in the world. Over the period
of time, it has become one of the most important wildlife sanctuaries in India and world.
Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur, Rajasthan
This wildlife sanctuary has gained the status of a World Heritage site and is a heaven for
bird watchers. Unlike other wildlife sanctuaries, Keoladeo become home to thousands of
migratory birds like Siberian cranes, Common Demoiselle, Hawks, Pelicans, Geese, Shanks,
Ducks and Pipits etc.
Pench National Park, Maharashtra
Pench is 25th Tiger Reserve in the country. It is one of the important wildlife sanctuaries
of India popular to spot species like wild pig, nilgai, sambhars, chital, muntjac, gaur, macque,
langur, wild boar, bears, wild dogs and four horned antelope.
Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary Karnataka
This wildlife sanctuary is located at the meeting point of the Deccan plateau and the
Western ghats in the Chamarajanagar district in Karnataka. It is amongst the most beautiful
wildlife sanctuaries of India popular for its rich flora and fauna.

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Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh
This sanctuary is located in Umaria district of the Madhya Pradesh. Amongst all the
wildlife sanctuaries, Bandhavgarh is known for its bio-diversity zone in the country. The
Bandhavgarh National Park is believed to have highest population of Tigers in the country.
Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh
This sanctuary is located in the Banjar and Halon valleys in the Mandla / Balaghat
districts of the state of Madhya Pradesh. It is one of those wildlife sanctuaries where you can
spot the Barasingha or swamp deer.
Kaziranga National Park, Assam
This sanctuary is located in state of Assam is one of the finest national parks that are
working actively in conserving the rare One Horned Indian Rhinoceros. It is one of those wildlife
sanctuaries that enjoy the status of being a world heritage site.
Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
This national park is located in in Sawai Madhopur district of Rajasthan state. The park
started off as a game sanctuary initially which became one of the important wildlife sanctuaries
of India later. It is one of the major Tiger Project Reserves of India.
Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala
Kerala has a forest area of 11,125 sq km, which covers almost 29 percent of the total land
area of the state. There are Five National Parks and 13 Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala. These
parks and sanctuaries cover 2250 sq km, which is 24 percent of the total forest area and 6 percent

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of the total land area of the state. All these National Parks and sanctuaries are famous tourist
destinations and are frequently visited by tourists to experience the enjoyment of watching
wildlife in their natural habitat and to get a feel of the scenic excellence of Kerala.
The following are the Wildlife Sanctuaries of Kerala.
 Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Tiger Reserve)
 Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary
 Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
 Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
 Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
 Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
 Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
 Chenthuruni Wildlife Sanctuary
 Peechi-Vaazhaani Wildlife Sanctuary
 Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary
 Aaralam Wildlife Sanctuary
 Mangalavanam (Bird Sanctuary)
 Thattekkaad (Bird Sanctuary)
 Kurinjimala Sanctuary
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Also known as the Thekkady Wildlife sanctuary, the Periyar wildlife sanctuary is located
in the hills of the Western Ghats spreading over an area of 675 sqkm. With its geomorphology,
wildlife, beautiful landscape and the picturesque Periyar lake within, the sanctuary is a major

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tourism center in Kerala and attracts a very large number of tourists each year. With Over 1800
flowering plants including 171 grass species and 143 species of orchids, 35 species of mammals
and 265 varieties of bird species, the Periyar sanctuary is a repository of endemic, rare and
endangered flora and fauna. Wild elephants, gaurs, langur, sambar deer, Malabar giant squirrel,
flying squirrel, Cobra, viper, krait, hombill, stork, woodpecker, kingfisher, raptor, darter,
cormorant, grackle, cluster etc... can be spotted here. Some of the famous tea gardens are also
located around this place.
Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary
Adjacent to the Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary of Tamil Nadu, this sanctuary sprawls
across 285 sq km and offers a fascinating sight of rare wild animals. It abounds in a variety of
trees, mainly teak, neem, sandalwood and rosewood. There are three dams within the
Parambikulam wildlife sanctuary, Parambikulam, Thunakadavu and Peruvaripallam.
Parambikulam has the largest population of Gaurs (Indian bisons). The rich fauna includes tigers,
leopards, elephants, sambars, tahrs, wild dogs, Indian muntjacs, spotted deers, jungle cats, bonnet
macaques, lion-tailed macaques apart from nearly 150 species of birds.
Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 77 sq km in the Thodupuzha and
Udumpanchola talukas of Idukki and occupies the forested area between the Cheruthoni and
Periyar rivers. Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is located at a distance of 40 kms from Thodupuzha.
The great reservoir formed by the construction of the Idukki arch dam and dams at Cheruthoni
and Kulamavu is a major tourist attraction. Wild Population of Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
includes Elephants, Bison, Sambhar, Deer, Wild Dogs, Jungle Cats, Tiger, Wild Boar etc. The

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avian population includes Jungle Fowl, Myna, Laughing Thrush, Black Bulbul, Peafowl,
Woodpecker, Kingfisher etc.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Chinnar wild life sanctuary in Idukki district covering an area of 90 sq. km is unique for the
thorny scrub forest. Unlike Other Regions in Kerala, Chinnar gets Only 48 Days of Rain. This is
the second habitat of the endangered giant grizzled squirrel of India. This sanctuary is situated on
either side of the Marayoor - Udumalpet road. The Marayoor sandal forest and the beautiful
Thoovanam waterfalls are located here. Traveling along the Karimunthi - Chinnar road one can
spot Elephants, Spotted Deer, Sambhar, Hanuman monkey and even Peacocks on either sides of
the road.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
The Wayanad sanctuary is part of the Wayanad plateau and is home to tigers, leopards,
elephants and a number of other animals. The sanctuary is an extension of the Bandipur National
Park in Kerala at its southern border. Rich in bio-diversity, the sanctuary is an integral part of the
nilgiri biosphere reserve, which has been established with the chief objective of conserving the
biological heritage of the region. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary comprises of deciduous
forest.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a number of animals that include monkeys,
Elephant, Panther, jungle cat, tiger, civet cat, wild dog, deer, bear and bison. Peacock, babblers,
cuckoos, owl, wood pecker and jungle fowl are only a few among the different types of birds
seen in the area.

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Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
The Neyyar reservoir extends for only 9.06 sq km and offers exceptional opportunities
for boating. The 1890 metres high Agasthyakoodam hill, named after the legendary Indian sage
Agasthya, lies in the premises of this sanctuary. A crocodile rearing centre set up by the Govt. of
India, deer farm and lion safari parks are the main attractions. The vegetation varies from
tropical wet evergreen to grasslands. The park houses reptiles like pythons, cobras and monitor
lizards and well-maintained gardens.
Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
Located at about 50 km north east of Thiruvananthapuram city in Nedumangad taluk of
Thiruvananthapuram district, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over an area of 53 sq. km.
The forests of this sanctuary constitute the catchment of Peppara dam, constructed across
Karamana River to supply drinking water to Thiruvananthapuram city and suburban areas. It was
declared a sanctuary in 1983 as thanks to the ecological significance of the area. The place is
fascinating for its dam site, thick forest areas, eucalyptus plantations, crystal clear streams and
rocky terrains ideal for adventure expeditions. This sanctuary has tropical, evergreen and
deciduous forests, and the hilly parts of the sanctuary harbor tropical forests.
Peppara National Park is the natural habitat of tiger, panther, wild dog, elephant, gaur,
mouse deer, Nilgiri langur, sambhar, lion tailed macaque, barking deer, wild boar, Malabar
squirrel etc. At Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, there are 13 tribal settlements. The tribes have a
fascinating culture untouched by modern life bustling outside the sanctuary.
Chenthuruni Wildlife Sanctuary

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The Chenthuruni or Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is situated 70 km far from Kollam
town on the Kollam-Shencotta Road. The Chenthuruni River flows through the midst of this
sanctuary. Both shores of the river is covered with thick forests which is home to a lot of
different species of trees and animals like , Elephants, Deer, Tigers, different kinds of Monkeys
etc... . Steep and rugged peaks surround the sanctuary, which is dotted by several breathtaking
ravines.
Peechi Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary
Peechi Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, a 125 sq km sanctuary, is situated at about 20 km
east of Thrissur, in the catchment area of the Peechi and Vazhani dams. The Sanctuary
comprising of the dense, moist deciduous and semi-evergreen forests is a haven for a variety of
wildlife that consists of many rare species of animals, birds and plants as well. With more than
50 species of orchids, medicinal plants, rosewood and teakwood the sanctuary is a veritable
treasure trove of rare flora and fauna. Among the wildlife, one can find animals like leopards,
sambar deer, wild dogs, barking deer, spotted deer, bison and elephants.
Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary
Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary, is situated at the Mukundapuram taluk of Thrissur District.
It covers an area of 87 sq km. The sanctuary has a dam which was constructed across the
Chimmini River at 75 m above the sea level. A part of the Chimmini wildlife sanctuary lies
adjacent to the Peechi-Vazhani wildlife sanctuary and the other part to Parambikulam wildlife
sanctuary. All kinds of flora found in rain forest are seen here. Animals like leopard, tiger,
elephant, bear, wild pigs, wild bison etc are commonly seen here.
Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary

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The Aralam sanctuary is the northern most wildlife sanctuary of Kerala and is located on
the western slopes of the Western Ghats. The sanctuary is only 55 sq. kms in area. A variety of
flora and fauna endemic to the Western Ghats is found here. Herds of deer, elephants, boar and
bison are quite common. Leopards, Jungle Cats and various types of Squirrels have also been
sighted. The vegetation here consists of tropical evergreen and semi evergreen forests. There are
about 490 ha of teak and eucalyptus plantations within the forest area.
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
Mangalavanam is an ecologically sensitive area situated at the centre of Kochi city. This
mangrove forest is home to many exotic and rare varieties of migratory birds. Mangalavanam
gained importance because of the mangrove vegetation and also due to the congregation of
communally breeding birds. The most common bird species found at Mangalavanarn were Little
Cormorant and Black-crowned Night Heron. Highest species richness of birds was found in the
months of May and July.
Thattekkad Wildlife Sanctuary (Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary)
Thattekkad Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Kothamangalam Taluk of Ernakulam
district on the northern bank of the Periyar river. One of the most famous landmarks in Kerala,
Thattekkad bird sanctuary is home to almost 500 species of exotic birds. The thick tropical
deciduous and evergreen cover is a safe haven for these winged creatures.
Dr Salim Ali, the renowned ornithologist of India, described Thattekad in the 1930's as
the richest bird habitat in peninsular India, comparable only with the eastern Himalayas. This
bird sanctuary, a peninsular land of 25 sq. km is covered with deciduous forests and plantation of
rosewood, teak etc.

24. 23
The fascinating birds that are found here are Bee-eater, Falcon Grey, Jungle Fowl, Black
Winged Kite, Shrike, Crimson-throated Barbet, Ceylon Frogmoth, Sunbird, Night Heron, Blue
winged parakeet, white-breasted water hen, rose-billed Roller, Hornbill, etc. This rare haven
offers picturesque landscapes, and is a nature lover's paradise.
Kurinjimala Sanctuary
Kurinjimala Sanctuary is covered area of 32 km core habitat of the endangered
Neelakurinji in Kottakamboor and Vattavada villages in Devakulam, Idukki district of Kerala.
Kurinjimala Sanctuary was declared by Kerala Misnister Benoy Viswam at the Neelakurinji Fest
at Munnar on October 7, 2006 bloom, massive flowering of Neelakurinji attracted nearly ten lakh
(1,000,000) people to Munnar and other places. As per the Government notification, this
sanctuary is protected for long time for its unique biodiversity of the area, especially
Strobilanthes Kunthiana and its habitat.
Kurinjimala Sanctuary is home to many rare species of flora. This sanctuary contains
Neelakurinji plant which is endangered species. This Sanctuary is covered with high altitude
Sholas and Montane grasslands. This sanctuary is said to be home for threatened species such as
Gaur, Nilgiri tahr and deer. The new sanctuary is nearby Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary to the
northwest, Manjampatti Valley in Amaravati reserve forest of Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary
to the northeast, Eravikulam National Park and Anamudi Shola National Park to the west,
Pampadum Shola National Park to the south and the proposed Palani Hills National Park to the
east. This sanctuary is known to be continuity and connectivity to these five protected areas.
Ranipuram Wildlife Sanctuary proposed in 2007 in Kasaragod district, approx. 80
km2 (31 sq mi) is an integral part of Brahmagiri biosphere: shola forests, Indian elephants,

25. 24
Indian leopards, wild dogs, various species of birds, Malabar Large-spotted Civets, slender loris,
macaque; no protection for this biodiversity area; illegal night hunting and poaching are main
threats; attention of the concerned authorities is required to declare it a wildlife sanctuary.
NATIONAL PARKS
National parks in India are IUCN category II protected areas. India's first national park
was established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, now known as Jim Corbett National Park,
Uttarakhand. By 1970, India only had five national parks. In 1972, India enacted the Wildlife
Protection Act and Project Tiger to safeguard the habitats of conservation reliant species. Further
federal legislation strengthening protections for wildlife was introduced in the 1980s. As of April
2012, there were 112 national parks. All national park lands then encompassed a total 39,919
km2(15,413 sq mi) , comprising 1.21% of India's total surface area.
List of National Parks Of India
Name State Established Notability
Balphakram
National Park
Meghalaya 2013 wild water buffalo, red panda,
elephant and eight cat species,
including the tiger and marbled cat
Bandhavgarh
National Park
Madhya
Pradesh
1968 highest known Tiger population in
India, White Tiger, 1336 species of

26. 25
endemic plants
Bandipur National
Park
Karnataka 1974 chital, gray langurs, Indian giant
squirrel, Gaur, leopard, Sāmbar deer,
Indian elephants, honey buzzard, red-
headed vulture and other animals.
Bannerghatta
National
Park (Bannerghatta
Biological Park)
Karnataka 1974 White Tiger, Royal Bengal Tiger, Bear,
other animals
Betla National Park Jharkhand 1986
Tiger, Sloth
Bear, Peacock, Elephant, Sambar
deer, mouse deer and other animals.
Bhitarkanika
National Park
Odisha 1988 Mangroves, Saltwater crocodile,
white crocodile, Indian python, black
ibis, wild pigs, rhesus
monkeys, chital and other animals
Blackbuck National
Park, Velavadar
Gujarat 1976 hunting cheetahs, Blackbuck Lodge
,the endangered Indian Grey Wolf, the
nocturnal Striped Hyena, Indian Fox,
Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat and many

27. 26
small mammals like hare, gerbil, field
mice, mongoose and hedgehog
Buxa Tiger Reserve West Bengal 1992
Campbell Bay
National Park
Andaman
and Nicobar
Islands
1992
Chandoli National
Park
Maharashtra 2004
Dachigam National
Park
Jammu and
Kashmir
1981 Only area where Kashmir stag is
found[1]
Darrah National
Park
Rajasthan 2004
Desert National Park Rajasthan 1980
Dibru-Saikhowa
National Park
Assam 1999
Dudhwa National
Park
Uttar
Pradesh
1977
Eravikulam National
Park
Kerala 1978
Galathea National
Park
Andaman
and Nicobar
Islands
1992

28. 27
Gangotri National
Park
Uttarakhand 1989
Gir Forest National
Park
Gujarat 1965 Asiatic lion
Gorumara National
Park
West Bengal 1994
Govind Pashu Vihar
Wildlife Sanctuary
Uttarakhand 1990
Great Himalayan
National Park
Himachal
Pradesh,
1984 UNESCO World Heritage Site
Gugamal National
Park
Maharashtra 1987
Guindy National
Park
Tamil Nadu 1976
Gulf of Mannar
Marine National
Park
Tamil Nadu 1980
Hemis National Park Jammu and
Kashmir
1981
Harike Wetland Punjab 1987
Hazaribagh National
Park
Jharkhand 1954

29. 28
Indira Gandhi
Wildlife Sanctuary
and National Park
Tamil Nadu 1989
Indravati National
Park
Chhattisgarh 1981 Wild Asian Buffalo, Tiger Reserve, Hill
Mynas
Jaldapara National
Park
West Bengal 2012 Indian one horned rhinoceros
Jim Corbett National
Park
Uttarakhand 1936
Kalesar National
Park
Haryana 2003
Kanha National Park Madhya
Pradesh
1955
Kanger Ghati
National Park
Chhattisgarh 1982
Kasu Brahmananda
Reddy National Park
Telangana 1994
Kaziranga National
Park
Assam 1905 Indian rhinoceros, UNESCO World
Heritage Site
Keibul Lamjao
National Park
Manipur 1977 only floating park in the world
Keoladeo National Rajasthan 1981 UNESCO World Heritage Site

30. 29
Park
Khangchendzonga
National Park
Sikkim 1977
Kishtwar National
Park
Jammu and
Kashmir
1981
Kudremukh National
Park
Karnataka 1987
Madhav National
Park
Madhya
Pradesh
1959
Mahatma Gandhi
Marine National
Park
Andaman
and Nicobar
Islands
1983
Mahavir Harina
Vanasthali National
Park
Telangana 1994
Manas National Park Assam 1990 UNESCO World Heritage Site
Mandla Plant Fossils
National Park
Madhya
Pradesh
1983
Marine National
Park, Gulf of Kutch
Gujarat 1980
Mathikettan Shola
National Park
Kerala 2003

31. 30
Middle Button Island
National Park
Andaman
and Nicobar
Islands
1987
Mollem National
Park
Goa 1978
Mouling National
Park
Arunachal
Pradesh
1986
Mount Abu Wildlife
Sanctuary
Rajasthan 1960
Mount Harriet
National Park
Andaman
and Nicobar
Islands
important bird area as attributed
by BirdLife International, new species
frog named Rana CharlesDarwini
Mrugavani National
Park
Telangana
Mudumalai National
Park
Tamil Nadu 1940
Mukurthi National
Park
Tamil Nadu 2001 Nilgiri Tahr
Murlen National
Park
Mizoram
Namdapha National
Park
Arunachal
Pradesh
1974

32. 31
Nameri National
Park
Assam 1978
Nanda Devi National
Park
Uttarakhand 1982 UNESCO World Heritage Site
Nandankanan
Zoological Park
Odisha 1960
Navegaon National
Park
Maharashtra
Neora Valley
National Park
West Bengal 1986
Nokrek National
Park
Meghalaya UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve
North Button Island
National Park
Andaman
and Nicobar
Islands
1979
Ntangki National
Park
Nagaland 1993
Orang National Park Assam 1999
Palani Hills National
Park
Tamil Nadu
Panna National Park Madhya
Pradesh
1981

33. 32
Papikonda National
Park
Andhra
Pradesh
2008
Pench National Park Madhya
Pradesh
1977
Periyar National
Park
Kerala 1982
Phawngpui Blue
Mountain National
Park
Mizoram 1992
Pin Valley National
Park
Himachal
Pradesh
1987
Rajaji National Park Uttarakhand 1983
Nagarhole National
Park
Karnataka 1988
Rani Jhansi Marine
National Park
Andaman
and Nicobar
Islands
1996
Ranthambore
National Park
Rajasthan 1981
Saddle Peak National
Park
Andaman
and Nicobar
Islands
1979

34. 33
Salim Ali National
Park
Jammu and
Kashmir
Sanjay National
Park²
Madhya
Pradesh
1981
Sanjay Gandhi
National Park
Maharashtra 1969
Sariska Tiger
Reserve
Rajasthan 1955
Satpura National
Park
Madhya
Pradesh
1981
Silent Valley
National Park
Kerala 1980
Sirohi National Park Manipur 1982
Simlipal National
Park
Odisha 1980 Tiger, Leopard, Asian elephant,
Sambar, Barking deer, Gaur, Jungle
cat, Wild boar, and other animals.
Singalila National
Park
West Bengal 1986
South Button Island
National Park
Andaman
and Nicobar
Islands
Dugong, Dolphin, Water Monitor
Lizard, Blue Whale
Sri Venkateswara Andhra 1989

35. 34
National Park Pradesh
Sultanpur National
Park
Haryana 1989
Sundarbans National
Park
West Bengal 1984 UNESCO World Heritage Site
Tadoba National
Park
Maharashtra 1955
Valley of Flowers
National Park
Uttarakhand 1982
Valmiki National
Park
Bihar 1976
Vansda National
Park
Gujarat 1979
Van Vihar National
Park
Madhya
Pradesh
1983
List of NationalParks in Kerala
 1978 Eravikulam National Park, Idukki district, 97 km²
 1982 Periyar National Park, Idukki district, 350 km²
 1984 Silent valley National Park, Palakkad district, 89.52 km²
 2003 Mathikettan shola National pPark, Idukki district, 12.82 km²

36. 35
 2003 Anamudi shola National Park in Idukki district is composed of mannavan shola,
idivara shola and pullardi shola, covering a total area of 7.5 km².
 2003 Pambadum shola National Park, Idukki district, 1.318 km²
 Proposed Karimpuzha National Park, 230 km
Differences between Biosphere Reserves, Wild Life Sanctuaries and
National parks and wildlife sanctuaries are protected natural habitats, declared by the
government of a country according to the regulations from the IUCN (The World Conservation
Union) to preserve the wildlife through conservation of ecosystems. The restriction levels vary
within these two categories but, the principal objective of declaring protected areas is the
conservation of nature. Thus, it is important to understand the differences and similarities
between a national park and a wildlife sanctuary.
Wildlife Sanctuary
A wildlife sanctuary is a declared protected area, where very limited human activity is
allowed. The ownership of this type of protected area could lie in the hands of either a
government or in any private organization or person, provided the regulations are governed by
the government. Inside a wildlife sanctuary, the hunting of animals is completely prohibited.
Additionally, the trees cannot be cut down for any purpose; especially the clearing of the forest
for agriculture is completely banned. However, it is not physically fenced to restrict the public
from entering and roaming inside a wildlife sanctuary for research, educational, inspirational,
and recreational purposes. The general public could use it up to a certain extent so that the
sanctuary is useful for them also. People can collect firewood, fruits, medicinal plants…etc. in
small scale from a wildlife sanctuary.

37. 36
National Park
National park was first introduced in 1969, by the IUCN as a means of a protected area.
However, in the 19th century, some western naturalists and explorers have put forward the ideas
of preserving ecosystems in order to conserve wildlife without active human interference. A
national park has a defined boundary, through which no person can get into the park without an
approval. Only an approved person can enter into a national park, either via paying a visitor
ticket or an approved letter from the governing body (mostly the government). The visitors can
only observe the park inside a vehicle that routes through defined trails and they cannot get out
the vehicle for any reason unless there is an approved place for visitors. Photographs are allowed
but research and educational work can only be done with a prior permission. The park cannot be
used for any reason viz. firewood, timber, fruits…etc. With all these regulations, the national
parks are established to conserve the natural habitats of the wild fauna and flora with a minimum
human interference.
The extent of the general public could interfere with the national parks and wildlife
sanctuaries vary drastically. The national parks are more restricted for the people but earn money
that could be managed to develop nature conservation measures. In both these protected areas,
people have the access for inspirational, educational, research, and recreational purposes but,
with certain limitations in national parks. However, both wildlife sanctuaries and national parks
contribute significantly for the conservation of nature.
Biosphere Reserves
Biosphere reserves of India are notified areas which cover a larger area of land which
may cover multiple National Parks, Sanctuaries and reserves as well. Ex. the Nilgiri Biosphere

38. 37
covers: Bandipur NP, Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Silent Valley NP, Wyanad WLS, Nagarhole
NP, Mukurthi NP, Sathyamangalam WLS & Reserve Forest and is usually a contiguous area. It
will also include the entire buffer and tourism zones and offers protection to not only the wildlife
and flora but to the indigenous people as well. Eg. Attapadi hill tribes. Another important thing
to note is that some controlled economic activities will be permitted in these areas - like mining
and farming etc. This is a Category 5 under IUCN but will include Categories 2, 3, 4 in it. Also,
the concept of Biosphere Reserves was first mooted by UNESCO under the Man & Biosphere
program (MAB) and the various other protected areas of India that come under the various laws
protect in individually.
ZOO
Our country boasts of a variety of flora and fauna making it one of the most preferred
destinations for watching and studying a wide range of species. The concept of zoo or zoological
parks started way back in the 19th century in London for the first time and since then it has come
a long way. Setting up zoos in India has helped conserve animals, rare as well as endangered
species. Moreover, zoos play a major role in research and education sector for the study of the
animal kind along with plant life.
Man-made areas or zoological gardens are where animals are confined within enclosures
and displayed to the public. Here animals are allowed to breed in captivity. The Central Zoo
Authority of India (CZA) is the governing authority of all zoos of India and is an associate
member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). Zoological garden is a
place for ex situ conservation of wildlife (conservation outside natural habitats). There are 800
professionally managed zoos in the world with about 3000 species of mammals, birds, reptiles

39. 38
and amphibians. In India there are 275 zoos, deer parks, safari parks, aquaria etc. Govt. of India
has set up a Central Zoo Authority for better management of Indian Zoos.
1) Mysore Zoo:
The City of Palaces, Mysore attracts tourists from all corners of the world. Sri
Chamarajendra Zoological Garden, as it is known to the locals, was setup way back in 1892 and
enjoys its name in the list of top 25 zoos in the continent and also the nation’s best zoo.
2) Chennai Zoo:
The Chennai Zoo holds the stature of being the first pubic zoo of our country. Dating
back to 1855, it has an estimated number of 2500 species of plants and animals.
3) Hyderabad Zoo:
Spread over an area of 380 acres of land, the Hyderabad Zoo gets its name after the first
Prime Minister of India, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru. Featured among the best zoos in India, it offers
the opportunity to enjoy elephant rides, children terrains and tiger safaris along with a display of
numerous rare species of animals.
4) Delhi Zoo:
The Delhi Zoo is undoubtedly the most visited Zoological Park in India. New Delhi being the
capital city finds its name in the top tourist destinations in India and it comes as no surprise that
it doesn’t leave its visitors disappointed.
5) Darjeeling Zoo:

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Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park or Darjeeling Zoo is spread over an area of
approximately 68 acres. It is named after the daughter of Sarojini Naidu who was also the former
Governor of the state of West Bengal. The zoo is globally recognized for its contribution in the
conservation of Himalayan Newt, Red Panda, Snow Leopards, Tibetan Wolf and a number of
endangered species of the Eastern Himalayan region. Darjeeling Zoo has also been rewarded for
having the highest number of mountain species in India. Here at the National Zoological Park,
birds and animals live in an environment that in many ways resemble their natural habitat.
Zoos in Kerala
There are two main zoos in Kerala one at Thiruvananthapuram and another at Thrissur.
Both these zoo have museums, botanical and zoological garden in the zoo premises. The wildlife
includes tiger, lion, deer, hippopotamus, monkeys, crocodiles etc. Besides these there are birds
and snakes as well. The main aim of the zoo is conservation of animals as most of the animals at
present fall under the category of endangered species. So it is necessary to conserve them before
they become totally extinct.
(i) Thiruvananthapuram Zoo:
The Thiruvananthapuram Zoo is located in the centre of the city of Thiruvananthapuram,
the capital of Kerala. Set among woodland, lakes and lawns this zoo is one of the well-designed
zoos in Asia. It is one of the oldest zoos in the country which was established by Travancore
King in the year 1857 as an annex to the Napier Museum. And it covers a total area of 55 acres
(22 hectares).

41. 40
The Lion tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Langur, Nilgiri Tahr, One Horned Great Indian Rhino,
Asiatic Lion, Royal Bengal Tiger are prominent among the indigenous endangered fauna
whereas, Giraffe, Hippo, Zebra, Cape Buffalo are the guests from African region. It will usher in
a new era with the completion of the ongoing modernization works in the Zoo. An aviary and
reptile house with various poisonous and non-poisonous snakes, which is located within the zoo
premises. There is also a Botanical Garden within the zoo premises which has various species of
tropical plants and trees.
(ii) Thrissur Zoo:
Thrissur zoo was established in the year 1885 in Chembukavu in Thrissur district. It
covers a total area of 13.5 (5.5 hectares) acres of land. It is at a walking distance from the famous
"Thrissur round" (one of the longest inner ring roads in India) and the famous Vadakkunnathan
temple. Thrissur zoo is small, but the Museum houses a large number of historic items such as
swords, jewellery, rocks, stuffed butterflies etc. There is also a small snake park inside the zoo.
The main aim of this zoo is conservation of animals and has taken measures for breeding
of animals. Research is also being conducted from here. It is one of the oldest zoos in the
country, and is home to the wide variety of animals, reptiles, and birds. The zoo compound
includes a natural history museum and an art museum that showcase the socio-cultural heritage
of the region. The zoo includes a Zoological Garden, Botanical Garden, Art Museum, and
Natural History Museum in its compound. Wildlife at the Thrissur zoo includes tigers, lions,
deers, sloth bears, monkeys, hippopotamus, camels, cobras, kraits, vipers, rat snakes, pink
flamingos, mithun of the north-eastern hills, and lion-tailed macaques and an assortment of many

42. 41
other species in myriad hues. There is also a special building which houses snakes. The public
zoo of Thrissur is all through adorned by landscaped gardens. A natural history museum and an
art museum are also enclosed within the same premises showcasing the socio-cultural heritage of
the region.
CONCLUSION
The purpose of wildlife conservation is to protect wild flora and fauna against the
encroachment of expanding human activity. The planet’s human population grew by 1.6 billion
people, between 1990 and 2010 (30% growth rate). The ever increasing amount of commercial
activity that this brings with associated use and abuse of the earth’s resources damages the
prospects of survival of wild flora and fauna. Despite fantastic work by conservationists, wildlife
conservation is gradually losing the battle to save many species of plant and animal from
extinction in the wild. This is because business, the main reason for population declines in
wildlife, has greater financial resources than conservationists. Business is also more motivated
and is constantly growing due to human population growth.
Governments are torn between the need to promote economic expansion and the quality
of life of the people it represents. Governments choose growth. The universal model of economic
growth has been the preferred way forward for generations of governments at the expense of
nature. Perhaps the most famous of all wild creatures is the tiger. The fight over the conservation
of the tiger is the classic battle between wildlife conservationists and big business. The truth is
that the battle is being lost by the conservationists. The tiger population has been in consistent
decline over 100 years. The Bengal tiger lives in India. The human population of India has

43. 42
grown by 40% over the period 1990-2010. Although the tiger lives on reserves and buffer zones
around reserves they are not places untouched by commercial exploitation. The tiger is running
out of space in which to live.
It is not simply that the human is relentlessly occupying the landscape that once belonged
to wildlife. People like to use wildlife to turn a profit. The illegal international trade in live wild
species is worth billions yearly. CITES, which is an international treaty to prevent trade in
wildlife, is failing. Agreements depend on goodwill. Many governments are corrupt to varying
degrees and some members of these governments personally benefit from this trade. This opens
the door to illegal trade in wildlife, dead or alive. For conservation to become more successful it
requires a greater involvement by the average person who is usually distanced from the issues
and wildlife itself.
REFERENCES
 The Importance Of Biodiversity - Dr. Nitasha Malhotra
 http://iscexamnotes-content.blogspot.in/2010/04/biodiversity-of-india.html
 http://www.vigyanprasar.gov.in/Radioserials/Conserving_Biodiversity2.pdf
 https://www.cbd.int/2010/biodiversity
 https://en.wikipedia.orghttp
 www.prokerala.com/kerala/tourism/wildlife-sanctuaries.php
 www.indiamarks.com/wildlife-sanctuaries-in-india
 www.biologydiscussion.com

44. 43
 www.kerenvis.nic.in/https
 www.quora.com