The Nagarjuna Sagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR) has earned the top spot among India’s tiger reserves for hosting the largest leopard population, as reported in EnviStats India-2024. Located amidst the scenic Nallamala hill ranges, this reserve is a significant wildlife sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh.
Location and Composition
NSTR is nestled in the Nallamala hills, which are part of the Eastern Ghats.
It is made up of two wildlife sanctuaries:
Rajiv Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary
Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary
Flora and Fauna
Natural Vegetation: The reserve is characterized by Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests, with a rich undergrowth of bamboo and grass.
Wildlife:
Big Cats: Tiger, Leopard
Carnivores: Asiatic Wild Dog, Jackal
Herbivores: Sambar, Wild Boar
Others: Sloth Bear
Water Features
Krishna River flows through the reserve, adding to its biodiversity and scenic beauty.
Waterfalls:
Ethpothala Falls
Pedda Dukudu
Gundam
Chaleswaram
Conservation Importance
The success of NSTR in housing the largest leopard population highlights the reserve’s role in biodiversity conservation. Its dense forests and water bodies provide essential habitats for numerous species, ensuring the ecological balance of the region.
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