Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary consists of two adjacent sections. The main western Lakkavalli-Muthodi section lies from 13˚22’ to 13˚47’ N latitude, 75˚29’ to 75˚45’ E longitude, and the smaller eastern Bababudangiri section from 13˚30’ to 13˚33’ N latitude, and 75˚44’ to 75˚47’ E longitude. Elevation varies from ; the highest point is Kallathigiri on the eastern boundary. ==Climate==

Temperatures vary from 10˚ to 35 °C and mean annual rainfall varies from 1200 mm to 2600 mm. ==History==

The area was first declared as 'Jagara Valley Wildlife Sanctuary' in 1951 by the then government of its surroundings, the area was extended to its present extent and renamed to Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary in 1974. ==Wildlife==

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is the biodiversity hotspot. Most of the area consists the wet deciduous forest, moist deciduous forest and green forests. Elevations ranging from to allows a variety of ecotypes including the unique shola forest/mountain grasslands complex at Bababudan Giri and other patches higher than . Combretaceae was the most abundant family in the forest. Indigoberry (Randia dumetorum) was the dominant species. Small carnivores in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary include leopard cat, rusty-spotted cat, ruddy mongoose, stripe-necked mongoose and otters. Reptiles Some of the reptiles commonly sighted in this park are common vine snake, king cobra, Indian cobra, Russell's viper, bamboo pit viper, rat snake, olive keelback, common wolf snake, Bengal monitor, Draco or gliding lizards and marsh crocodile. Butterflies Some of the butterflies in Bhadra sanctuary are yamfly, baronet, crimson rose butterfly, southern birdwing, tailed jay, great orange tip, bamboo tree brown, and blue pansy. ==Threats==

Another concern due to closeness of the population is procurement of non-timber forest products for commercial purposes and the procurement of timber for firewood. These affect the health of the forest in a long run. The other large threats are fishing and illegal poaching of wild animals. Management practices of the forest department are habitat improvement, boundary consolidation, protection against poaching and fires, and infrastructure development. However, operating funds are insufficient and often delayed and the sanctuary management is understaffed. There are problems with frequent fires which adversely affect the habitat and biodiversity of Bhadra. Timber smuggling of valuable trees is a big problem. ==References==