Kanniyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary

The Kanniyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu is a biodiversity hotspot that has recently garnered attention due to a research scholar documenting around 450 species of moths in the area.

Location:

• District: Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu.

  Geography: Situated at the southernmost tip of India, where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean converge.

  Boundaries:

  • North: Kalakkad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve.

  • South: Kodayar left bank channel and Thovalai channel.

  • West: Kerala State.

1. Designation and Protection:

   • Declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 2008 to preserve its rich biodiversity.

   • It acts as a protected area for wildlife, including the tiger, which is a flagship species in conservation efforts.

   Tiger Habitat:

   • It serves as a habitat for tigers, ensuring protection for these apex predators and supporting a healthy ecosystem.

   Rivers and Hydrological Importance:

   • Seven rivers originate from this sanctuary, with notable rivers like Thamirabarani and Pahrali, making it a critical water catchment area for the region.

   • The rivers also support the sanctuary’s ecosystem and provide water to many other areas in southern Tamil Nadu.

   Endemic Species and Biodiversity:

   • The sanctuary is an endemic region, meaning it is home to several species of plants, amphibians, and insects that are found nowhere else in the world.

Significance of the Sanctuary:

• Tribal Communities: Several tribal communities live in the adjacent reserve forests, integrating their culture with the rich biodiversity of the region.

• Confluence of Water Bodies: Being at the confluence of three oceans, the sanctuary is strategically located and crucial for preserving the biodiversity of the peninsula.

Vegetation:

The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of vegetation, representing various types of forests:

• Southern Thorn Forests

• Dry Deciduous Forests

• Moist Deciduous Forests

• Semi-evergreen Forests

• Evergreen Hill Sholas with grassy downs.

Fauna:

The sanctuary hosts a variety of wildlife, including:

• Indian Bison (Gaur)

• Elephant

• Nilgiri Tahr

• Sambar Deer

• Lion-tailed Macaque

• Indian Rock Python