Uttar Pradesh, located in the northern part of India, is renowned for its diverse wildlife and natural beauty. The state boasts several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, each playing a crucial role in preserving its rich biodiversity.
National Parks in Uttar Pradesh
National parks are protected areas where activities such as hunting, poaching, and grazing are not allowed. These parks are dedicated to the conservation of wildlife and their habitats.
Dudhwa National Park
- Established: 1968 as a wildlife sanctuary for swamp deer
- Area: 490 sq km
- Location: Lakhimpur-Kheri district, near the Indo-Nepal border
- Notified as National Park: January 1997
Key Facts:
- In 1988, Dudhwa was declared a tiger reserve and became part of the Project Tiger initiative.
- Major Attractions: Tigers, swamp deer, and Indian rhinoceros. Other animals include sambar deer, spotted deer, sloth bear, and various cat species.
- Special Note: Dudhwa is known for its strong population of Barasingha (swamp deer).
Butterfly Park in Uttar Pradesh
The first Butterfly Park in Uttar Pradesh was established in Kanpur in 2018. This park aims to preserve butterfly species and their habitats.
Features:
- Flower Species: 100 species planted to attract butterflies
- Butterfly Species: More than 50 species preserved
- Additional Plants: 50 species of flowers and 40 evergreen flowers, including calendula
Wildlife Sanctuaries in Uttar Pradesh
Wildlife sanctuaries are natural areas that provide protection for wildlife from hunting and poaching. Uttar Pradesh has 12 wildlife sanctuaries, each with unique features and flora.
Major Wildlife Sanctuaries
- Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary
- Established: 1957
- Area: 78 sq km
- Location: Chanduali district, near Varanasi
- Key Animals: Leopard, hyena, wolf, wild boar, nilgai, sambar deer, and python.
- Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary
- Established: 1976
- Area: 400.09 sq km
- Location: Bahraich district
- Key Animals: Gharial, tiger, rhino, Gangetic dolphin, and swamp deer.
- National Chambal Sanctuary
- Established: 1979
- Area: 5400 sq km
- Location: Chambal river, near the tripoint of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh
- Key Species: Critically endangered gharial, red-crowned roof turtle, Ganges river dolphin.
- Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary
- Established: 1986
- Area: 2073 sq km
- Location: Gangetic plains, Uttar Pradesh
- Key Species: Leopard, wild cats, monkey, fox, and various birds like peacocks and cranes.
- Kachhua (Turtle) Wildlife Sanctuary
- Established: 1989
- Area: 7 sq km
- Location: Varanasi district
- Key Species: Turtles, Ganges dolphin, and other water animals.
- Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary
- Established: 1982
- Area: 500.73 sq km
- Location: Mirzapur and Sonbhadra districts
- Key Species: Chinkara, leopard, and black buck.
Other Notable Sanctuaries
| Name | District | Area (sq km) | Year of Establishment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary | Lakhimpur Kheri, Shahjahanpur | 227 | 1972 |
| Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary | Lalitpur | 5.41 | 1977 |
| Ranipur Wildlife Sanctuary | Banda, Chitrakoot | 230.1 | 1977 |
| Sohagibarwa Wildlife Sanctuary | Maharajganj | 428 | 1987 |
| Sohelwa Wildlife Sanctuary | Balrampur, Gonda, Shravasti | 452.47 | 1988 |
| Pilibhit Wildlife Sanctuary | Pilibhit | 602.798 | 2014 |
Highlights
- Dudhwa National Park is the largest wildlife reserve in Uttar Pradesh.
- National Chambal Sanctuary is notable for its large area and critical species protection.
- Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary has the largest area among the sanctuaries in the state.
Bird Sanctuaries and Wildlife Reserves of Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh is home to a variety of bird sanctuaries and wildlife reserves that play a crucial role in preserving the region’s rich biodiversity. These areas not only serve as habitats for numerous bird species but also as key locations for wildlife conservation. In this chapter, we’ll explore some of the significant bird sanctuaries and tiger reserves in Uttar Pradesh, along with other important natural habitats.
Bird Sanctuaries of Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh hosts 13 bird sanctuaries, each contributing to the conservation of various bird species, particularly migratory and endangered ones. Let’s take a closer look at some of the major bird sanctuaries in the state.
Bakhira Bird Sanctuary
- Established: 1990
- Area: 28.94 sq km
- Location: Sant Kabir Nagar district, Eastern Uttar Pradesh
Bakhira Bird Sanctuary is the largest natural floodplain wetland in India. It serves as a crucial wintering and staging ground for migratory waterfowl and provides a breeding ground for resident birds. The sanctuary is also connected to the Bakhira Canal, which supports farming activities. Remarkably, Siberian birds travel over 5,000 km to reach these wetlands during winter.
Okhla Bird Sanctuary
- Established: 1990
- Area: 4 sq km
- Location: Okhla Barrage over Yamuna River, Noida, Gautam Buddh Nagar district
Okhla Bird Sanctuary is renowned for its diverse bird population, with over 300 species recorded, particularly water birds. Notably, the sanctuary is home to critically endangered species like the white-rumped vulture and Indian vulture, along with vulnerable species such as the Baikal teal and sarus crane.
Patna Bird Sanctuary
- Established: 1990
- Area: 1.09 sq km
- Location: Etah district
Patna Bird Sanctuary is the smallest bird sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh. Despite its size, it hosts around 2 lakh birds of 300 different species. This makes it a vital habitat for both resident and migratory birds.
Parvati Aranga Bird Sanctuary
- Established: 1990
- Area: 10.84 sq km
- Location: Gonda district
The Parvati Aranga Bird Sanctuary is a haven for several bird species, including the Northern Pintail, bar-headed goose, red-crested pochard, and tufted duck. The sanctuary’s wetland ecosystem is crucial for these birds’ survival.
Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary (Surha Taal Bird Sanctuary)
- Established: 1991
- Area: 34.32 sq km
- Location: Ballia district
This sanctuary, also known as Surha Taal Bird Sanctuary, is frequented by both foreign and local migratory birds during the winter season. Its vast area provides ample space for these birds to thrive.
READ MORE | NATURAL VEGETATION OF UTTAR PRADESH
Lakh Bahosi Bird Sanctuary
- Established: 1998
- Area: 80.24 sq km
- Location: Farrukhabad district
Lakh Bahosi Bird Sanctuary is the largest bird sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh. It is a significant wintering site for migratory birds from November to March. Besides birds, visitors might also spot animals like jackals, blue bulls, mongooses, and fishing cats.
Other Major Bird Sanctuaries
Below is a table summarizing other notable bird sanctuaries in Uttar Pradesh:
| Name of Protected Area | Area (sq km) | District | Year of Establishment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary | 2.25 | Unnao | 1984 |
| Samaspur Bird Sanctuary | 7.99 | Raebareli | 1987 |
| Sandi Bird Sanctuary | 3.09 | Hardoi | 1990 |
| Saman Bird Sanctuary | 5.26 | Mainpuri | 1990 |
| Vijay Sagar Sanctuary | 2.62 | Mahoba | 1990 |
| Sur Sarovar Sanctuary | 4.03 | Agra | 1991 |
| Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar Bird Sanctuary | 4.27 | Pratapgarh | 2003 |
Tiger Reserves of Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh is also home to three tiger reserves, which are critical for the conservation of the Bengal tiger and other wildlife species.
Dudhwa Tiger Reserve
- Established: 1987
- Area: 1093.79 sq km
- Location: Lakhimpur-Kheri and Bahraich districts
Dudhwa Tiger Reserve is a vast protected area comprising Dudhwa National Park, Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary, and Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. It shares its northeastern boundary with Nepal. The reserve is a sanctuary for tigers, leopards, swamp deer, elephants, and around 400 bird species.
Pilibhit Tiger Reserve
- Established: 2008
- Area: 602.79 sq km
- Location: Pilibhit, Lakhimpur-Kheri, and Bahraich districts
Located along the Indo-Nepal border, Pilibhit Tiger Reserve is characterized by the foothills of the Himalayas and the plains of the Terai. The reserve is home to a large number of rare and threatened species, including the Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, and swamp deer.
Amangarh Tiger Reserve
- Established: 2012
- Area: 80.06 sq km
- Location: Bijnor district
Amangarh Tiger Reserve, originally part of the famous Jim Corbett National Park, is now a separate protected area in Uttar Pradesh. It is home to tigers, elephants, and a variety of other wildlife species.
Note: Jim Corbett National Park, established in 1936, is the oldest national park in India and is now located in Uttarakhand.
Wetlands in Uttar Pradesh
Wetlands are vital ecosystems that support diverse flora and fauna. Uttar Pradesh has several important wetlands, one of which is recognized internationally under the Ramsar Convention.
Upper Ganga River (Brijghat to Narora Stretch)
- Area: Stretch of Ganga River
- Ramsar Recognition: 2005
This stretch of the Ganga River is a shallow river with deep water pools and reservoirs. It provides a habitat for the IUCN Red-listed Ganges river dolphin, gharial, crocodile, and several species of turtles, fish, and birds. However, the wetland faces threats from sewage discharge, agricultural runoff, and intensive fishing.
Zoological Parks in Uttar Pradesh
Kanpur Zoological Park
- Established: 1974
- Area: 76 sq km
- Location: Kanpur district
Kanpur Zoological Park is one of the oldest zoological parks in India. It covers a large area and houses a wide variety of animal species.
Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Park
- Established: 1921
- Area: 0.29 sq km
- Location: Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh
This zoological park is located in the heart of Lucknow and is known for its rich history and diverse animal collection.
Night Safari Park in Greater Noida
- Special Mention: World’s fourth and India’s first Night Safari Park is established in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. This unique park offers visitors a chance to experience wildlife at night, adding a new dimension to wildlife conservation and tourism.
Wildlife Conservation Schemes in Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh is actively engaged in various wildlife conservation efforts to protect its rich biodiversity. Several schemes and programs have been launched by the state and central governments to ensure the survival of endangered species, protect natural habitats, and promote eco-tourism. Below is an overview of some key wildlife conservation schemes in Uttar Pradesh.
Project Tiger
Overview
Project Tiger is a major tiger conservation program launched on 1st April 1973 by the Government of India. The primary objective of this project is to ensure a viable population of Bengal Tigers in their natural habitats and to protect them from extinction. It also focuses on preserving areas of biological importance as a natural heritage.
Covered Reserves in Uttar Pradesh
The following tiger reserves in Uttar Pradesh are covered under Project Tiger:
- Dudhwa Tiger Reserve
- Amangarh Tiger Reserve
- Pilibhit Tiger Reserve
These reserves play a crucial role in the protection and conservation of the Bengal tiger and its habitat.
Endangered Species Breeding Centre
Overview
The Endangered Species Breeding Centre was established in 1984 in the Kukrel forest area of Lucknow. The center’s primary goal is to save species, particularly the black deer (Krishna Mrig), from extinction and to stabilize their population.
Turtle Rehabilitation Scheme
Overview
The Turtle Rehabilitation Scheme was implemented by the Government of India in 1986 under the Ganga Action Plan. The aim of this scheme is to conserve turtles, particularly those in the Ganga River, by providing a safe environment for their survival and rehabilitation.
Project Elephant
Overview
Project Elephant is a centrally sponsored program launched in 1992 to provide financial and technical support to states for the management of their wild Asian elephant populations. The project’s goal is to ensure the long-term survival of elephants by protecting their natural habitats and migration corridors.
Implementation in Uttar Pradesh
In Uttar Pradesh, three forest divisions have been identified for Project Elephant:
- Shiwalik Forest Division
- Bijnor Social Forestry Division
- Najibabad Forest Division
These areas are crucial as they have significant elephant populations.
India’s First Elephant Hospital
Overview
In November 2018, India’s first Elephant Hospital was opened in Agra. Located in the Farah block of Mathura near the Elephant Conservation and Care Centre (ECCC) run by Wildlife SOS, the hospital covers an area of 12,000 square feet.
Facilities
The hospital is equipped with modern medical facilities for treating injured elephants, including:
- Wireless Digital X-ray
- Laser Treatment
- Dental X-ray
- Thermal Imaging
- Ultrasonography
- Hydrotherapy
- Tranquilization Equipment
- Quarantine Facilities
This hospital plays a vital role in the conservation and welfare of elephants in India.
Sarus Conservation Society
Overview
The Sarus Conservation Society was established by the State Government with the core objective of studying the ecology of the Sarus crane and supporting activities that ensure its survival. The society funds special projects aimed at improving Sarus habitats and promoting conservation awareness across Uttar Pradesh.
Achievements
According to a 2013 census, the number of Sarus cranes in Uttar Pradesh increased to nearly 12,000. The society also supports extensive educational programs in areas rich in wetlands.
Uttar Pradesh State Biodiversity Board
Overview
The Uttar Pradesh State Biodiversity Board was constituted under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. The board’s primary function is to regulate access to biological resources in the state and ensure equitable sharing of benefits arising from their use.
Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH)
Overview
Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH) is a centrally sponsored scheme launched during the 11th Five-Year Plan to provide technical and financial assistance to states and union territories for wildlife habitat protection.
Activities
The scheme covers a range of activities, including:
- Capacity Building
- Wildlife Research and Evaluation
- Anti-Poaching Activities
- Wildlife Veterinary Care
- Addressing Man-Animal Conflicts
- Promoting Eco-Tourism
In Uttar Pradesh, this scheme is connected to all wildlife sanctuaries as of 2002-03.
National Plans for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCAE)
Overview
National Plans for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCAE) was launched in 2013 by merging the National Lake Conservation Plan and National Wetland Programme. Its objective is to protect wetlands and natural habitats while monitoring water quality.
Development of Eco-Tourism
Overview
The Development of Eco-Tourism scheme is implemented in the districts of Lakh Bahosi, Unnao, Kannauj, and Nawabganj. These areas are known for their natural beauty, forests, and wildlife.
Objective
The aim of this scheme is to attract tourists by providing eco-friendly facilities and promoting sustainable tourism in these regions.
Forest Cover Enrichment Scheme
Overview
The Forest Cover Enrichment Scheme was proposed as a four-year plan with the collaboration of NABARD. The objective is to enrich forest cover in open forest areas and regenerate degraded forest regions.
Implementation
The scheme is proposed for 18 districts in Uttar Pradesh, including:
- Agra
- Aligarh
- Bareilly
- Meerut
- Saharanpur
- Moradabad
- Jhansi
- Banda
- Kanpur
- Lucknow
- Faizabad
- Gonda
- Varanasi
- Mirzapur
- Allahabad
- Gorakhpur
- Basti
- Azamgarh
FAQs
Q1: What is the only National Park in Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Dudhwa National Park.
Q2: In which district is Dudhwa National Park located?
ANSWER: Lakhimpur-Kheri.
Q3: In which year was Dudhwa National Park declared a ‘Project Tiger Reserve’?
ANSWER: 1988.
Q4: Where is Uttar Pradesh’s first Butterfly Park located?
ANSWER: Kanpur.
Q5: In which year was the Butterfly Park in Kanpur established?
ANSWER: 2018.
Q6: When was Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary founded?
ANSWER: 1986.
Q7: Where is Turtle Wildlife Sanctuary situated?
ANSWER: Varanasi.
Q8: In which district is Bakhira Bird Sanctuary located?
ANSWER: Sant Kabir Nagar.
Q9: Surahatal Bird Sanctuary is situated in which district?
ANSWER: Ballia.
Q10: What is the first bird sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary.
Q11: Where is Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary located?
ANSWER: Unnao.
Q12: In which district is Samaspur Wildlife Sanctuary situated?
ANSWER: Raebareli.
Q13: In which year was Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Bird Sanctuary established?
ANSWER: 2003.
Q14: Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Bird Sanctuary is situated in which district?
ANSWER: Pratapgarh.
Q15: Pilibhit Tiger Reserve is located in which district?
ANSWER: Lakhimpur-Kheri.
Q16: In which year was Pilibhit Tiger Reserve established?
ANSWER: 2008.
Q17: Which is the first National Park established in India?
ANSWER: Jim Corbett National Park.
Q18: In which year was Kanpur Zoological Park, the oldest Zoological Park in India, established?
ANSWER: 1974.
Q19: Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Park is located in which city of Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Lucknow.
Q20: Where is Babbar Sher Safari established in Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Etawah.
Q21: In which year was India’s first Elephant Hospital established?
ANSWER: 2018.
Q22: Elephant Hospital is located in which district of Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Agra.
Q23: In which year was the Endangered Species Breeding Centre established?
ANSWER: 1984.
Q24: Turtle Rehabilitation Scheme was implemented under which plan?
ANSWER: Ganga Action Plan.
Q25: Where is Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary located?
ANSWER: Meerut.
Q26: Where is Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary located?
ANSWER: Unnao.
