Features: Magazine | Literary Review | Life | Metro Plus | Open Page | Education Plus | Book Review | Business | SciTech | Friday Review | Young World | Property Plus | Quest | Folio |

Vallanadu Black Buck Sanctuary

Sadly, like a lot of other animals, the Black Buck (Antelope cervicapra) today is included in the Endangered Species List (Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife Act).

Of those that still live, a few are found in Tamil Nadu at the Vallanadu Sanctuary.

The sanctuary has been developed in order to conserve and protect the beautiful creature.

With scrub forests, open grasslands with intermittent tall grass or bushes, Vallanadu, is perfect for these animals. Black Bucks are sensitive to territory and Vallanadu is spread over a generous 1,641 hectares amidst the Vallanadu and Kurumalai hills.

Other fauna: Apart from these animals, Vallanadu is also home to spotted deer, macaques, jungle cat, mongoose and hares.

A large number of birds are also found in the forests that are mainly drought-resistant.

Nearby attractions: Twenty two km north west of Thoothukudi is Ottapidaram where a Mayura Thottam (peacock farm) is spread over 55 km. Coconut and fruit trees here attract peacocks in large numbers, which come here to breed. In the months of October and November, you could catch a glimpse of peacocks dancing.

Nearest Railhead: Tirunelveli (Approximately 20 km away). Frequent buses to the sanctuary are available. Cars can also be hired.

Nearest Airport: There are regular flights to Madurai, which is 165 km away.

There are Air Deccan flights to Vagaikulam near Thoothukudi, which is approximately 25 km away.

Where to stay: Tirunelveli has plenty of private accommodation available.

However, permission has to be sought before visiting the sanctuary.

For details contact the DFO's office at 0461-2346600

Forest rangers are available at the sanctuary to guide you.

Printer friendly page  
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail