A rare striated grassbird was recently recorded in Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra. This sighting marks a significant range extension for the species within the state.
Established in 1986, Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 134.78 sq.km. The sanctuary is flanked by the Markhanda and Pedigundam hills to the northeast and south, while the Pranhita River flows along its western boundary. It is situated near the confluence of the Wardha and Wainganga rivers.
During the monsoon season, rising river waters inundate sections of the sanctuary. Additionally, several water bodies, such as the Murgikunta, Raikonta, and Komatkunta tanks, contribute significantly to the sanctuary’s biodiversity.
The sanctuary primarily features southern tropical dry deciduous forests, which are interspersed with grasslands. The dominant tree species found here include:
Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including:
The sanctuary also features a unique riparian ecosystem supporting diverse aquatic fauna, including fish, prawns, and turtles.
The striated grassbird is a member of the Locustellidae family, scientifically known as Megalurus palustris. This bird is widely distributed across South and Southeast Asia, including countries such as China, India, Pakistan, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Key features of the striated grassbird include:
Q1. What is the significance of Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary?
Answer: Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary is significant for its rich biodiversity, comprising various flora and fauna. It plays a vital role in wildlife conservation and habitat protection in Maharashtra.
Q2. Where is Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary located?
Answer: Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra, India. It spans an area of approximately 134.78 sq.km.
Q3. What are the dominant tree species in the sanctuary?
Answer: The sanctuary features several dominant tree species, including teak, Arjun, salai, and mahua, which contribute to its tropical dry deciduous forest ecosystem.
Q4. What species of animals can be found in Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary?
Answer: The sanctuary is home to various animals, including tigers, leopards, wild boars, sloth bears, and several species of deer.
Q5. What recent discovery was made in Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary?
Answer: A rare striated grassbird was recently recorded in the sanctuary, marking a significant range extension for this species in Maharashtra.
Question 1: When was Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary established?
A) 1980
B) 1986
C) 1992
D) 1995
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which river flows along the western boundary of Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary?
A) Godavari
B) Pranhita
C) Krishna
D) Ganga
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What is the scientific name of the striated grassbird?
A) Megalurus palustris
B) Acrocephalus arundinaceus
C) Locustella naevia
D) Emberiza citrinella
Correct Answer: A
Question 4: Which of the following species is NOT found in Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary?
A) Leopard
B) Polar Bear
C) Wild Boar
D) Sloth Bear
Correct Answer: B
Kutos : AI Assistant!
