Chaprala wildlife sanctuary:
A rare striated grassbird was recently recorded in Chaprala wildlife sanctuary in Gadchiroli district, marking a major range extension for the species in Maharashtra.
- It is located in the Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra.
- The Markhanda and Pedigundam hills flank the sanctuary from northeast and south, and the Pranhita River flows along its western boundary.
- It is located on the bank of the confluence of the Wardha and Wainganga rivers.
- During the monsoons, river water swells and enters the sanctuary.
- Additionally, several water bodies, including the Murgikunta, Raikonta, and Komatkunta tanks, further contribute to the sanctuary’s biodiversity.
- It is dominated by southern tropical dry deciduous forests interspersed with grasslands.
- The dominant tree species include teak, Arjun, salai, mahua, bel, dhawada, tendu, sissoo, and semal.
- It is inhabited by Tiger, Leopard, Wild boar, Sloth bear, Wild dogs, Langurs, Blackbuck, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Jackal, Mongoose, etc.\
- The sanctuary also features a distinctive riparian ecosystem that supports a diverse aquatic fauna, including fish, prawns, and turtles.
- Striped Grassbird is a species of bird in the Locustellidae family.
- Scientific Name: Megalurus palustris
- It is widely found across South and Southeast Asia, including China, India, Pakistan, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia.
- Conservation Status: IUCN Red List: Least Concern.
