Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary: In News
Odisha’s Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is all set to be declared India’s newest tiger reserve.
- Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Bargarh district of Odisha.
- It is located near Hirakud Dam (the longest dam in India and the longest earthen dam in the world) on the Mahanadi River.
- It was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1985.
- It finds a special mention because of noted freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai.
- During his rebellion against the British, his base at Barapathara was located within the sanctuary.
- Most of the plant sanctuary is covered with mixed and dry deciduous forest.
- Major trees found here are Sal, Asana, Bija, Aanla, Dhaura, etc.
- Indian leopards, sloth bears, chousingha (four-horned antelope), sambar deer, gaurs (Indian bison), wild boars, and Indian wild dogs etc.
- It is one of the most flocked wintering grounds of migratory birds that visit the sanctuary from far off places.
- Some of the most prominent among them are the crested serpent eagle, Flower Peckers, red vented bulbul, tree pie, drongo and white eye oriental.