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Andhra Pradesh is a land of beauty, renowned for its flora and fauna. Due to the favourable climate in this region, many animal species are found here. The state has built several wildlife sanctuaries to preserve the beauty and diversity of Andhra Pradesh. Located in different parts of the state, these wildlife sanctuaries are renowned for certain species of plants and animals.
The forest reserves are fairly dense, favoured by the region’s climate. The marshy soil also favours the growth of dense forests. Thus, many animals, including wild animals, can comfortably live here.
What Are the Factors that Facilitate the Establishment of Wildlife Sanctuaries in Andhra Pradesh?
About 23% of Andhra Pradesh’s land is covered by dense forests, as the peaty and marshy soil favours the growth of large trees. These trees make forests and create homes for wild animals, including endangered species.
Animals consider these areas their natural habitat and live quite comfortably. Flora and fauna growing in these areas create living spaces exactly similar to their natural homes. Hence, they find it easy to adapt to this environment. Moreover, the herbivores are surrounded by the plants they love to consume.
Some Important Wildlife Sanctuaries in Andhra Pradesh
Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary is home to many animals and birds, including endangered bird species. Some endangered birds include the long-billed vulture and the white-backed vulture. A dense and heavy growth of mangrove trees is seen here, making it the third-largest stretch of mangrove forests in the Indian subcontinent.
In terms of variety, the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary houses 24 species of mangrove trees and over 120 species of birds. They are given a favourable environment for survival and growth.
The Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the Godavari Estuary and has dry deciduous tropical forests, along with extensive mangrove forests. More than 35 species of plants grow here, adding to the scenic beauty of the place. Besides making the place beautiful, these plants replicate the habitats to which the animals and birds are accustomed.
Birds feast on small fish, molluscs, and shrimps. Blue and pied kingfisher, flamingoes, seagulls, openbill stork, golden jackal, saltwater crocodile, etc., are some of the most popular animals found there.
Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary
Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary is located near Vishakhapatnam and is a dry evergreen forest with scrub and meadows. It is maintained by the Andhra Pradesh Forest Department. The vast and diverse flora and fauna are native to the Eastern Ghats. Indian leopards, Indian jackals, Madras Treeshaws, Ruddy mongooses, Sambar deers, Asian palm civets, and many other species of mammals and birds are found here.
Reptiles include Russell’s viper, Bengal monitor, Indian cobra, rat snake, etc. Indian paradise flycatcher and the Indian golden oriole are the most prominent birds inside this sanctuary. It is a beautiful place with many species of butterflies, birds, mammals, and reptiles.
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary
The Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh and is primarily popular for the great Indian bustard. The Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary is a grassland ecosystem and has mixed forests as well as thorny shrubs.
Along the border of this sanctuary, there are agricultural fields that grow cotton, tobacco, and sunflower. There are many species of birds, animals, and reptiles in the Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary, including certain endangered species of animals and birds.
Despite its beauty and great natural surroundings, the Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary has been witnessing a gradual decline in the population of wildlife residing here. Nearly 800 blackbucks living on the premises of this sanctuary often fly out of the sanctuary and raid nearby farmlands, causing several problems to the farmers living close to the sanctuary.
Conclusion
Andhra Pradesh houses various wildlife sanctuaries that different animal and bird species call home. Andhra Pradesh’s soil favours the growth of trees and shrubs. The forests provide the animals and birds with their natural habitats. These wildlife sanctuaries attract thousands of tourists every year and contribute to the state’s economy.
