Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary : In News
As the summer rush peaks in July, a conservationist looks at how rash development and irresponsible tourism are threatening Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary’s unique animals and environment.
- Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Ladakhi Changthang plateau in the Leh district of Ladakh.
- It covers an area of almost 1,600 sq. km and is home to the highest altitude water lakes, namely, Tso Moriri (which also happens to be the highest lake on earth), Pangong Tso and Tso Kar.
- The Changthang region is inhabited by nomadic pastoral communities, primarily the Changpa tribe, who lead a traditional way of life herding yaks, goats and sheep across the vast grasslands.
- This region is steeped in Tibetan Buddhist culture and heritage.
- It includes one of the world’s highest villages, Korzok Village, which attracts tourists to the Korzok Monastery.
- Fauna: Tibetan wolf, wild yak, bharal, brown bear and the mormot that seems to be present everywhere.
- Flora: It is home to almost 200 species of wild plants that grow in the higher pastures and are food for the animals inside the sanctuary.
