Melkote Temple Wildlife Sanctuary
Wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka, India
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Melkote Temple Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area situated in the Mandya district of Karnataka, India. Established on June 17, 1974, it was primarily created to provide a refuge for the Indian wolf. The sanctuary is named after the historic Melkote pilgrimage town and its prominent temples, which border the protected zone.[1][2][3]
| Melkote Temple Wildlife Sanctuary | |
|---|---|
IUCN category IV (habitat/species management area) | |
  Location within Karnataka  Location within India | |
 Interactive map of Melkote Temple Wildlife Sanctuary | |
| Location | Mandya district, Karnataka, India |
| Nearest city | Melukote |
| Coordinates | 12.700°N 76.662°E |
| Area | 49.82 km2 (19.24 sq mi) |
| Established | 17 June 1974 |
| Governing body | Department of Forest (Karnataka) |
Geography
The sanctuary covers an area of 49.82 square kilometres and is divided into two non-contiguous blocks Mudibetta and Narayandurga.
The terrain of the sanctuary is predominantly rocky with an elevation ranging from 800 to 1127 metres. The highest peak is Gavikallu Betta.[4]
Flora and Fauna
The sanctuary's vegetation is classified as tropical dry deciduous and scrub forest.
Flora
A botanical highlight is the presence of Cycas swamyi, a rare and endangered gymnosperm endemic to this region. Other significant flora include Sandalwood (Santalum album).
Fauna
- Mammals other than the wolf, it hosts leopards, sloth bears, and striped hyenas.[5]
- Birds Recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA), it hosts nearly 200 species, including the vulnerable Yellow-throated bulbul.[6]