Birds and Animals Sanctuaries in the State of Odisha, India

Odisha, located on the eastern coast of India, is blessed with diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity. The state is home to several birds and animal species, many of which find refuge in various sanctuaries established across the region.

These sanctuaries not only serve as important habitats for wildlife but also promote conservation efforts and ecotourism. This assignment explores some prominent bird and animal sanctuaries in Odisha, providing details about their names, types, years of establishment, and the size of their respective areas.

Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary

  • Type: Bird and Crocodile Sanctuary
  • Year of Establishment: 1975
  • Area Size: Approximately 672 square kilometers
  • Located in Kendrapara district, Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned for its mangrove forests and a significant population of saltwater crocodiles. It provides a secure habitat for numerous resident and migratory bird species, including the endangered white-bellied sea eagle, osprey, and Asian openbill stork.

Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary

  • Type: Bird Sanctuary
  • Year of Establishment: 1987
  • Area Size: Approximately 1,165 square kilometers
  • Situated on the shores of Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. It hosts an astounding variety of avian species, both resident and migratory. The sanctuary’s wetlands attract thousands of birds, including flamingos, herons, sandpipers, and pelicans.

Naankanan Zoological Park

  • Type: Zoological Park
  • Year of Establishment: 1960
  • Area Size: Approximately 437 hectares
  • Nandankanan Zoological Park, located near the capital city of Bhubaneswar, is a renowned center for wildlife conservation and education. It houses a diverse collection of animals, including rare species like the white tiger and the Indian pangolin. The park actively contributes to breeding programs and focuses on creating naturalistic enclosures for its inhabitants.

Simlipal National Park

  • Type: Tiger and Elephant Reserve
  • Year of Establishment: 1973
  • Area Size: Approximately 2,750 square kilometers
  • Situated in the Mayurbhanj district, Simlipal National Park is not only known for its majestic tigers and elephants but also for its vibrant birdlife. The park is home to over 230 species of birds, including the red junglefowl, Indian trogon, and Malabar pied hornbill. Simlipal’s diverse ecosystems encompass dense forests, waterfalls, and meadows.

Satkosia Tiger Reserve

  • Type: Tiger Reserve
  • Year of Establishment: 1976
  • Area Size: Approximately 963 square kilometers
  • Spanning across the districts of Angul, Cuttack, and Nayagarh, Satkosia Tiger Reserve is nestled along the magnificent gorge of River Mahanadi. The reserve provides a vital habitat for the endangered Royal Bengal tiger and supports a remarkable avifauna, including the Indian pitta, Indian paradise flycatcher, and white-eyed buzzard.

Odisha’s bird and animal sanctuaries play a crucial role in preserving the state’s rich biodiversity and promoting wildlife conservation. These protected areas provide safe havens for various bird and animal species, contributing to their survival and fostering ecotourism.

By raising awareness and ensuring sustainable management, these sanctuaries continue to inspire future generations to appreciate and protect the natural treasures of Odisha.

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