Context
Recently, five individuals were arrested for poaching an Indian Pangolin inside the Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary (TWS) in Yavatmal, Maharashtra. The incident highlights the rising threats of illegal wildlife trade and stresses the need for stronger conservation measures in protected areas like TWS.
About Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary (TWS)
What is TWS?
- A protected wildlife sanctuary and tiger reserve in Maharashtra.
- Known for its high tiger density and rich biodiversity.
- Offers a lesser-crowded safari experience compared to Tadoba Tiger Reserve.
Location
- Situated in the Pandarkawada region, Yavatmal district, Maharashtra.
- Covers an area of 148.63 sq. km.
- Named after Goddess Tipai, whose shrine is located in Tipeshwar village.
History & Conservation
- Declared a Wildlife Sanctuary under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
- Rose to prominence as the home of Tigress Avni, subject of Vidya Balan’s film Sherni.
- Since 2010, conservation efforts have increased the tiger population from 3 to nearly 20.
Key Features
Flora
- Teak forests cover nearly 60% of the vegetation.
- Red Sandalwood makes up around 15%.
- Other major trees: Mahua, Achar, Lendia, Tiwas, along with 250 species of bamboo.
Fauna
- Important species: Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, jackals, chital, sambar, wild boar, and the Indian Pangolin.
- Hosts 26 reptile species and rare mammals like the Rusty-Spotted Cat and False Vampire Bat.
Avifauna
- Known as a birdwatcher’s paradise with 256 bird species.
- Notable sightings: Painted Francolin, Rain Quail, Lesser Whistling Duck, Eurasian Wryneck.
Butterfly Diversity
- Nearly 97 butterfly species recorded.
- Rare species include Black Rajah and Peacock Royal.
Ecotourism Potential
- Provides jeep safaris, nature trails, and rural tourism opportunities.
- Supports local livelihoods while creating awareness about conservation.
Conclusion
Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary represents an important landscape for tiger conservation, biodiversity protection, and eco-tourism in Maharashtra. However, incidents like the pangolin poaching underline the urgent need for:
- Stricter enforcement of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
- Community participation in anti-poaching efforts.
- Sustainable conservation strategies to safeguard endangered species and promote balanced rural development.
Source : THE TIMES OF INDIA
