Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary | 01 Nov 2024

Source: HT 

Recently, an adult tigress and three cubs were spotted in the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS), Goa for the first time since 2020. 

• Location and Geography: 
  • WLS is located near the Chorla Ghat, situated between North Goa and Belgavi. It borders both Maharashtra and Karnataka. 
  • The Mhadei River flows through this sanctuary. 
• Ecological Significance: 
  • Mhadei WLS, along with other protected areas in Goa like Mollem National Park, forms part of the Western Ghats. This region is globally renowned for hosting the world's largest tiger population. 
  • The sanctuary plays a vital role in a network of wildlife corridors that connect tiger populations across the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra) and the  Kali Tiger Reserve (Karnataka). 
• Unique Flora and Fauna: 
  • Notably, Vazra Falls in Mhadei WLS serves as a nesting ground for critically endangered Long-billed vultures, underscoring the sanctuary's importance for avian conservation. 
• Conservation Status and Recommendations: 
  • Goa stands as the only state in India to have its entire portion of the Western Ghats under state protection, with Mhadei WLS being a critical part of this area. 
  • Previously, the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) recommended the designation of Mhadei WLS as a tiger reserve under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, to enhance conservation efforts for the tiger population in this unique region.

Read More: Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary