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WILDLIFE AND CONSERVATION IN RAJASTHAN

November 4, 2024

WILDLIFE AND CONSERVATION IN RAJASTHAN

Rajasthan plays a critical role in India’s efforts toward wildlife conservation. Second only to Assam in terms of wildlife diversity and richness, Rajasthan has long been recognized for its rich natural heritage. Before India’s independence, the state was referred to as a “Hunters’ Paradise” due to rampant hunting and poaching activities. After independence, the uncontrolled felling of trees and hunting continued to threaten wildlife populations. However, both the central and state governments have taken significant steps to collaborate in protecting the forests and wildlife of Rajasthan. These efforts aim to restore ecosystems, preserve biodiversity, and ensure the long-term survival of endangered species.

WILDLIFE CONSERVATION METHODS

Wildlife conservation can be categorized into two main approaches:

  1. In-Situ Conservation

In-situ conservation involves protecting and maintaining species within their natural habitat. It aims to conserve the ecosystems and biodiversity in a manner that allows organisms to live and propagate naturally. Examples include National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Tiger Conservation Projects, Ramsar Sites, Conservation Reserves, Biosphere Reserves, and areas where hunting is prohibited. In-situ conservation allows for the holistic protection of the flora and fauna as part of the broader ecosystem.

  1. Ex-Situ Conservation

Ex-situ conservation, on the other hand, refers to the practice of conserving species outside their natural habitats. It involves facilities like Zoos, Deer Parks, Animal Gene Banks, and Aquariums where animals are bred, preserved, and studied in controlled environments. This method is vital for species on the verge of extinction that cannot survive in the wild.

 

IN-SITU CONSERVATION IN RAJASTHAN

Rajasthan has implemented robust in-situ conservation strategies across its various national parks and protected areas. The state boasts three major national parks, which are home to a wide variety of species and serve as critical areas for biodiversity conservation.

  1. National Parks in Rajasthan

Rajasthan has a total of three national parks that play a key role in wildlife conservation:

  1. Ranthambore National Park
  • Established: 1980
  • Location: Sawai Madhopur
  • Area: 393 square kilometers

Special Features:

  • Ranthambore is the largest and oldest national park in Rajasthan and is considered the “Home of Tigers” because it harbors the largest number of tigers in the state.
  • The park is also renowned for the Trinetra Ganesh Temple, Jogi Mahal, and Dog Valley located within its premises.
  • Machli Tigress (T-16), often called the “Queen of Ranthambore,” gained worldwide fame for her majestic presence.

 

  1. Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary
  • Established: 1981
  • Location: Bharatpur
  • Area: 29 square kilometers (smallest national park in Rajasthan)

Special Features:

  • Keoladeo Ghana is the only natural heritage site from Rajasthan included in the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1985.
  • The park is home to Ajan Dam (Banganga) and is famous for being the winter destination of migratory Siberian Cranes.
  • It is recognized as the “Paradise of Birds” and has been a Ramsar site since 1981.
  • The bird sanctuary is also the working place of Dr. Salim Ali, India’s preeminent ornithologist.


Species Number of Species
Native Birds 300+
Migratory Birds 150+
Mammals 30+
Reptiles & Amphibians 40+

 

  1. Mukundara Hills National Park
  • Established: 9 January 2012
  • Location: Extends across Kota and Chittorgarh districts
  • Area: 199 square kilometers

Special Features:

  • Mukundara Hills is the latest national park in Rajasthan and is noted for its scenic beauty.
  • It is famous for the Gagroni Parrot.
  • The park is part of the third Tiger Project in Rajasthan (after Ranthambore and Sariska).
  • The Abali Meeni (Kota) range is also situated within the park boundaries.

 

STATE SANCTUARIES IN RAJASTHAN

Rajasthan is home to a diverse range of wildlife sanctuaries, contributing significantly to the conservation of both flora and fauna. The state has a total of 27 state sanctuaries spread across various geographical terrains, from deserts to forests, each offering a unique habitat for wildlife species.

Overview of State Sanctuaries in Rajasthan

The sanctuaries in Rajasthan vary significantly in size, with some spanning thousands of square kilometers, while others are relatively small yet rich in biodiversity.

  • Largest Sanctuaries:
    • National Desert Park: 3162 km²
    • Keladevi Sanctuary: 677 km²
    • Kumbhalgarh Sanctuary: 611 km²
  • Smallest Sanctuaries:
    • Sariska ‘A’ Sanctuary: 3 km²
    • Sajjangarh Sanctuary: 5 km²
    • Talchappar Sanctuary: 7 km²

 

  1. Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1955
  • Location: Alwar

Special Features:

  • Sariska is famous for its population of peacocks and green pigeons.
  • The Tiger Den Hotel, operated by RTDC, is located within this sanctuary.
  • Sariska was the site of Rajasthan’s second tiger conservation project initiated in 1978.
  • The sanctuary is also home to important cultural sites like Bhartrihari Temple, Pandupol Temple, and Neelkanth Mahadev Temple.
  • Geographical highlights include the Kankanwadi and Kranska Plateaus, which add to the diverse landscape.

 

  1. Sariska ‘A’ Sanctuary
  • Location: Alwar
  • Size: 3 km²

Special Features:

  • This is the smallest sanctuary in Rajasthan.
  • Despite its small size, Sariska ‘A’ is rich in biodiversity and is one of the newest sanctuaries in the state.

 

  1. Talchappar Sanctuary
  • Established: 1971
  • Location: Churu

Special Features:

  • Talchappar is well-known for its population of black buck and kurja bird (Demoiselle Crane).
  • The sanctuary’s vegetation includes Mochia grass, which dominates the landscape.
  • Guru Dronacharya’s Ashram is a historic and spiritual site located within the sanctuary’s boundaries.

 

  1. National Desert Park
  • Established: 1980
  • Location: Jaisalmer, Barmer
  • Size: 3162 km² (the largest sanctuary in Rajasthan)

Special Features:

  • The park supports xerophytic vegetation, which is well-adapted to desert conditions.
  • Notable wildlife includes the Great Indian Bustard and Chinkara (Indian gazelle).
  • Fossil Park, located within the sanctuary, features remnants from the Jurassic period, offering a glimpse into prehistoric Rajasthan.
  • The sanctuary is a vast expanse of the Thar Desert and is crucial for preserving desert ecosystems.

 

Category Species
Mammals Chinkara, Desert Fox
Birds Great Indian Bustard
Reptiles Spiny-Tailed Lizard
Vegetation Xerophytes, Savan Grass


  1. Jamwaramgarh Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1982
  • Location: Jaipur

Special Features:

  • The sanctuary is known for its Dhoka forests, providing a unique ecological setting for wildlife.
  • It is home to the Jamwai Mata Temple, a popular cultural and religious site located within the sanctuary’s premises.

 

  1. Nahargarh Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1980
  • Location: Jaipur

Special Features:

  • The sanctuary was developed as a biological park to preserve regional flora and fauna.
  • It is an important conservation site for species native to the Aravalli range and surrounding regions.

 

  1. Bandh Baretha Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1985
  • Location: Bharatpur

Special Features:

  • This sanctuary acts as a refuge for the birds from Keoladeo National Park during the migratory season, making it an extension of the “House of Birds” for which Keoladeo is renowned.
  • The sanctuary is also a hub for local bird species and seasonal migratory birds.

 

  1. Ramsagar Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1955
  • Location: Dholpur

Special Features:

  • Ramsagar is known for its serene water bodies, which attract a variety of aquatic birds and support rich aquatic biodiversity.
  • It is also a vital stopover for migratory birds.

 

  1. Van Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1955
  • Location: Dholpur

Special Features:

  • Van Vihar is significant for its forested areas and is home to many species of flora and fauna. The dense forest cover provides ideal conditions for species such as deer and leopards.

 

  1. Kesar Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1955
  • Location: Dholpur

Special Features:

  • This sanctuary was established by the last ruler of Dholpur, Udaybhan Singh, and is famous for its historical significance.
  • It serves as a home to various species, including blackbucks and chital, and supports conservation efforts for these species.

 

  1. Keladevi Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1983
  • Location: Karauli, Sawai Madhopur

Special Features:

  • The Dhok forests found here provide shelter to a variety of wildlife species, including predators and herbivores. The sanctuary is a critical extension of the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, acting as a buffer zone for tiger conservation.

 

  1. National Chambal Alligator Sanctuary
  • Established: 1979
  • Location: Extends across Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh

Special Features:

  • The Chambal Sanctuary is notable for its protection of the Gharial (Alligator) and the Gangetic Dolphin (Sus).
  • It covers five districts of Rajasthan, including Dholpur, Karoli, Sawai Madhopur, Bundi, and Kota.
  • The sanctuary is vital for the conservation of the Chambal River ecosystem, which supports a rich diversity of aquatic life.

 

  1. Sawai Mansingh Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1984
  • Location: Sawai Madhopur

Special Features:

  • This sanctuary is adjacent to the Ranthambore National Park and plays an essential role in the broader ecosystem by acting as a buffer zone for wildlife populations.
  • It supports a variety of species, including tigers and leopards.

 

  1. Sawai Madhopur Sanctuary
  • Established: 1955
  • Location: Sawai Madhopur

Special Features:

  • Overlaps with Ranthambore National Park, sharing many of its wildlife species, including tigers and leopards.
  • The sanctuary is integral to the larger Ranthambore Tiger Conservation Project, contributing to the area’s overall ecological balance.

 

  1. Ramgarh Vishdhari Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1982
  • Location: Bundi

 

Special Features:

  • Pythons are one of the key species protected in this sanctuary.
  • The Mej River runs through the sanctuary, providing essential water sources for the wildlife.
  • The sanctuary is also home to rare plant species such as the Sandalwood tree and Turmeric plant, which are native to the region.
  • Kanak Sagar/Dugari Dam is located within the sanctuary, adding to its ecological and hydrological significance.

 

  1. Jawahar Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1975
  • Location: Bundi, Kota, Chittorgarh

Special Features:

  • Famous for its alligator population.
  • The sanctuary’s proximity to the Jawahar Sagar Dam adds to its unique landscape, attracting various aquatic species and supporting riverine ecosystems.

 

  1. Shergarh Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1983
  • Location: Baran

Special Features:

  • The sanctuary is home to various snake species, making it well-known for reptiles.
  • Shergarh Fort and the Parvan River are prominent features within the sanctuary, contributing to both its ecological and historical significance.

 

  1. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1971
  • Location: Udaipur, Pali, Rajsamand

Special Features:

  • Kumbhalgarh is famous for its population of wolves.
  • It is also known for the historic Ranakpur Jain Temple, a major attraction near the sanctuary.

 

  1. Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1979
  • Location: Pratapgarh, Chittorgarh, Udaipur

Special Features:

  • Known as the “Motherland of Chital,” Sitamata harbors a large population of these deer.
  • The sanctuary also features flying squirrels, chausinha (four-horned antelope), and pangolins (Adahula).
  • The Jakham River (Jakham Dam), Karmoi, and Nalesar Rivers flow through this sanctuary, enhancing its biodiversity.
  • The sanctuary contains rich teak forests and medicinal plants, making it a biodiversity hotspot.

 

  1. Bhensrodgarh Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1983
  • Location: Chittorgarh

Special Features:

  • Alligators are a key species in Bhensrodgarh, with the sanctuary located along the Chambal and Brahmani Rivers, providing an ideal habitat for these reptiles.

 

  1. Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1988
  • Location: Chittorgarh

Special Features:

  • The Jaleshwar Mahadev Temple is located within the sanctuary, adding a cultural aspect to the area.
  • This sanctuary is important for its ecological diversity, with dense forests providing shelter for a range of species.

 

  1. Phulwari Ki Naal Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1983
  • Location: Kotada (Udaipur)

 

Special Features:

  • The Som, Mansi, and Wakal Rivers flow through this sanctuary, creating a wetland ecosystem that supports a range of aquatic species and birdlife.

 

  1. Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1957
  • Location: Udaipur

Special Features:

  • Known as the “colony of aquatic animals,” Jaisamand is famous for its wetland ecosystems that provide habitats for aquatic birds, reptiles, and mammals.
  • The Jaisamand Lake (also known as Dhebar Lake) is the second-largest artificial lake in Asia and is the heart of the sanctuary’s biodiversity.

 

  1. Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1987
  • Location: Udaipur

Special Features:

  • Sajjangarh Biological Park was built within this sanctuary, making it a significant site for ex-situ conservation efforts.
  • It is the second smallest sanctuary in Rajasthan, yet rich in biodiversity and home to a variety of fauna and flora.

 

  1. Todgarh Raoli Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Established: 1983
  • Location: Ajmer

Special Features:

  • Todgarh Raoli is known for its unique geographical landscape, which combines semi-arid zones with dense forests.
  • The sanctuary supports species such as leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species, contributing to the ecological diversity of Rajasthan.

ADDITIONAL WILDLIFE CONSERVATION INITIATIVES IN RAJASTHAN

In this section, we will explore the Tiger Projects, Ramsar Sites, Conservation Reserves, and Hunting Prohibited Areas in Rajasthan, further highlighting the state’s comprehensive efforts in wildlife conservation.

Tiger Projects in Rajasthan

Rajasthan is home to four prominent Tiger Projects, aimed at the conservation of tigers and their habitats. These projects are critical for maintaining the population of this endangered species.

S. No. Tiger Project Establishment Year Extension Area (Km²) Covered Area
1. Ranthambore 1974 Sawai Madhopur, Karauli, Bundi, Tonk 1411 Ranthambore National Park, Sawai Madhopur Sanctuary, Keladevi Sanctuary, Chambal Sanctuary
2. Sariska 1978 Alwar, Jaipur 1213 Sariska Sanctuary, Sariska ‘A’, Jamwaramgarh Sanctuary
3. Mukundara Hills 2013 Kota, Bundi, Jhalawar, Chittorgarh 760 Mukundara Hills National Park, Darrah Sanctuary, Chambal Sanctuary, Jawahar Sagar Sanctuary
4. Ramgarh Vishdhari 2021 Bundi, Bhilwara 1050 Ramgarh Vishdhari

 

Special Notes:

  • Ranthambore and Sariska are two of the most well-known tiger reserves in India, with Sariska being one of the earliest locations to undergo tiger reintroduction.
  • Ramgarh Vishdhari, the most recent addition in 2021, focuses on expanding the protected area for tigers.
  • These tiger reserves not only protect the tiger population but also preserve the ecological balance of their respective regions.

 

Ramsar Sites / Wetland Lands

Ramsar Sites are designated wetlands of international importance under the Ramsar Convention, aimed at protecting these vital ecosystems. Rajasthan is home to two Ramsar sites:

  1. Keoladeo (1981) – Known for its Siberian Cranes, which migrate here during winter.
  2. Sambhar (1990) – Famous for Kurja (Demoiselle Crane) and Flamingo populations.

Special Features:

  • Keoladeo is often referred to as the “Paradise of Birds” due to its importance in avian conservation.
  • Sambhar Lake is the largest inland saltwater lake in India and attracts a variety of migratory birds.

 

Conservation Reserves in Rajasthan

Conservation reserves serve as protected areas for wildlife outside of the traditionally designated national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Rajasthan currently has 14 Conservation Reserves:

 

S. No. Conservation Reserve Location
1. Jorbeer Garh Wala Bikaner
2. Jawai Dam Leopard-I Pali
3. Jawai Dam Leopard-II Pali
4. Beed Jhunjhunu
5. Bansyal-Khetri Jhunjhunu
6. Bansyal-Khetri Bagor Jhunjhunu
7. Mansa Mata Jhunjhunu
8. Bisalpur Tonk
9. Sundha Mata Jalore, Sirohi
10. Shakambhari Sikar, Jhunjhunu
11. Gagelav Nagaur
12. Rotu Nagaur
13. Gudha Vishnoyan Jodhpur
14. Ummedganj Pakshi Vihar Kota


Special Features:

  • These reserves play a vital role in providing additional protection to critical habitats and ensuring the conservation of species, particularly leopards in regions like Jawai.
  • Jorbeer Garh Wala in Bikaner is famous for the conservation of scavenger birds, including vultures.

 

Hunting Prohibited Regions

In order to safeguard its wildlife, Rajasthan has declared 33 Hunting Prohibited Areas across the state. These areas are established to restrict hunting and protect endangered species.

Region Notes
Largest: Kotarsamvatsar-Churu Covers the expansive region between Churu and Bikaner.
Smallest: Kanaka Sagar Located in Bundi, this is the smallest hunting-prohibited area.
Maximum Areas: Jodhpur Jodhpur leads with 7 hunting-prohibited areas.

Special Features:

  • Hunting prohibited areas play a crucial role in preventing poaching and allowing for the recovery of populations like blackbuck, chinkara, and great Indian bustards.
  • The largest area, Kotarsamvatsar-Churu-Bikaner, provides vital protection for species inhabiting the Thar Desert.

 

EX-SITU CONSERVATION

Ex-situ conservation involves preserving species outside their natural habitats, typically in controlled environments like zoos and breeding centers. Rajasthan has made significant strides in ex-situ conservation through its network of zoos and parks.

  1. Zoos in Rajasthan

There are a total of 5 zoos in Rajasthan, each playing an important role in wildlife conservation and education.

  1. Jaipur Zoo
    • Established: 1876 at Ram Niwas Bagh by Maharaja Ram Singh II.
    • Currently, the zoo has been shifted to Nahargarh Sanctuary, where a crocodile breeding center has been established.
  2. Udaipur Zoo
    • Established: 1878 in Gulabbagh.
    • It is the second zoo in Rajasthan and has historically contributed to breeding programs.
  3. Bikaner Zoo
    • Established: 1922.
    • Currently closed but was once a significant part of wildlife conservation in Bikaner.
  4. Jodhpur Zoo
    • Established: 1936.
    • It includes a Godawan breeding center and has been pivotal for the breeding of other endangered species.
  5. Kota Zoo
    • Established: 1954.
    • One of the key locations in eastern Rajasthan for animal breeding and conservation.

 

  1. Deer Parks in Rajasthan

There are a total of 7 deer parks across Rajasthan. These parks provide critical spaces for breeding and conserving deer species, especially the chital and blackbuck.

 

S.No. Deer Park Location
1. Ashok Jaipur
2. Sanjay Jaipur
3. Amrita Devi Jodhpur
4. Machiya Safari Jodhpur
5. Pushkar Ajmer
6. Sajjangarh Udaipur
7. Durg Chittorgarh

 

Special Features:

  • These deer parks contribute to the conservation of blackbuck and chital and are also popular for eco-tourism and education about herbivorous species in Rajasthan.

 

OTHER IMPORTANT POINTS ON RAJASTHAN’S MAIN WILDLIFE

  1. Chinkara (Indian Gazelle)
  • Declared as the State Animal: 1981
  • Scientific Name: Gazella gazella
  • The Chinkara, a species of antelope, is found widely across Rajasthan, with major populations in the National Desert Sanctuary and Nahargarh Sanctuary.

Conservation Importance:

  • Due to its importance in Rajasthan’s ecology, the Chinkara is protected under various conservation projects aimed at preventing poaching and habitat degradation.

 

  1. Godawan (Great Indian Bustard)
  • Declared as the State Bird: 1981
  • Scientific Name: Ardeotis nigriceps
  • Known locally as the Son Chidiya, the Great Indian Bustard is critically endangered and mostly found in Jaisalmer Desert Park, Ajmer, and Baran.

Special Notes:

  • The Godawan Conservation Act was passed in 2014 to protect this species.
  • Breeding centers for the Great Indian Bustard are located in Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, and Baran.

 

  1. Gagroni Parrot (Alexandrine Parakeet)
  • Scientific Name: Psittacula eupatria
  • The Gagroni Parrot, also known as the Hiraman Parrot, is famous for its ability to mimic human voices and is found mostly in Mukundara Hills National Park.

Special Notes:

  • This parrot plays an important role in the local ecosystem, and efforts are being made to protect its population due to habitat loss.

Wildlife Mascots by District (Declared by the Forest Department in 2016)

In a unique initiative, the Rajasthan Forest Department declared a wildlife mascot for each district in March 2016. These mascots represent the rich biodiversity of Rajasthan and symbolize the species most associated with each district. The selection of mascots not only highlights the distinct ecological presence in each area but also raises awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation at the local level.

 

S. No. District Mascot
1. Ajmer Kharmor Bird
2. Bhilwara Peacock
3. Alwar Sambhar Deer
4. Banswara Bronze Winged Jacana
5. Baran Crocodile
6. Barmer Fox
7. Bikaner Batbar (Sand Grouse)
8. Bharatpur Siberian Crane
9. Bundi Golden Pheasant
10. Chittorgarh Four-Horned Antelope (Chousingha)
11. Churu Blackbuck
12. Jhunjhunu Black Pheasant
13. Dausa Rabbit
14. Dholpur Panchira (Indian Screamer)
15. Dungarpur Painted Stork (Jhanghil)
16. Hanumangarh Chhota Kilkila (Kingfisher)
17. Jaisalmer Godawan (Great Indian Bustard)
18. Jalore Bear
19. Jhalawar Gagroni Parrot
20. Jodhpur Kurja Bird (Demoiselle Crane)
21. Karauli Alligator
22. Kota Otters (Udbilao)
23. Nagaur Flamingo
24. Tonk Swan
25. Pali Leopard
26. Pratapgarh Flying Squirrel
27. Rajsamand Wolf
28. Sawai Madhopur Tiger
29. Sri Ganganagar Chinkara
30. Sikar Shahin (Hawk)
31. Udaipur Tomb Brock
32. Sirohi Wild Chicken
33. Jaipur Chital (Spotted Deer)

 

Special Features:

  • Godawan (Great Indian Bustard) as Jaisalmer’s mascot highlights the importance of this critically endangered species, while Sawai Madhopur being represented by the Tiger showcases its status as a leading tiger conservation region.
  • The inclusion of species such as the Blackbuck (Churu), Leopard (Pali), and Otters (Kota) signifies the diverse range of wildlife found across Rajasthan’s varied ecosystems.
Kailash Sankhala: The Tiger Man of India

Kailash Sankhala is an iconic figure in Indian wildlife conservation, particularly known for his efforts to protect tigers. Born in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, he was instrumental in establishing and promoting tiger conservation throughout India.

Achievements and Contributions:

  • Sankhala is often referred to as the “Tiger Man of India” due to his lifelong commitment to protecting tigers.
  • He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1992 and later honored with the Rajasthan Ratna in 2013 for his outstanding contributions to wildlife conservation.
  • Sankhala was the first director of Project Tiger, India’s ambitious and successful tiger conservation program.

Literary Contributions:

Kailash Sankhala authored several books on wildlife conservation and tiger protection, including: Tigerland, The Tiger and Return of the Tiger.

These books provide invaluable insights into the challenges and strategies involved in wildlife conservation, particularly in the context of tiger preservation.

 

WILDLIFE AND CONSERVATION IN RAJASTHAN

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