Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary

KOLLUR WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

Kollur Wildlife Sanctuary has been named after Godess Mookambika,

the presiding deity of the famous Mookambika temple

located within the limits of the sanctuary

Sri Mookambika Temple, Kollur

Vision

To conserve the biodiversity of Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary with villagers

cooperation and develop facilities for protection, food and water for the survival of

wildlife

Key Objectives

a) To conserve biodiversity and wildlife

b) To minimise the man animal conflict

c) To provide necessary facilities for protection and development of

wildlife involving the local community participation

d) Encourage eco tourism for public and school children’s to create

awareness on environment

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that I have submitted the necessary details required for writing the

Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary Management Plan to the Deputy Conservator of Forests,

Wildlife Division, Karkala. The details are true to the best of my knowledge as on date. I

have participated with the Deputy Conservator of Forests, Kudremukh Wildlife Division,

Karkala and Assistant Conservator of Forests, Wildlife Subdivision, Kundapura in the

discussions in preparing the Management Plan of Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary, and

read the final Plan copy and found correct.

Austin P. Soans

Range Forest Officer,

Kollur Wildlife Range,

Date : 30-10-2010 Kollur.

I have participated in the discussions with the Deputy Conservator of Forests,

Kudremukh Wildlife Division, Karkala in writing the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary

Management Plan 2011-2015 and details of the Plan are true to the best of my knowledge.

I have red the final copy of the Management Plan and found correct.

P. Suresh Shetty

Assistant Conservator of Forests,

Wildlife Sub division,

Date : 30-10-2010 Kundapur.

FOREWORD

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

udremukh Wildlife Division lies in the heart of Western Ghats.

It comprises of Kudremukh National park, Someshwara wildlife

sanctuary, and Mookambika Wildlife sanctuary.

Sri Ambady Madhav, IFS, the then Deputy Conservator of

Forest, Kudremukh Wildlife Division, Karkala had prepared first

management plan for the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary in the year

1996 for 5 years (1996-2001). Sri. K.N. Murthy, IFS, prepared the 2nd

management plan for 7 years (2003-2010). I thank all other senior

officials for contributing idea, information and valuable efforts for

preparing the management plan.

I sincerely thank Sri. S. Shanthappa, IFS, Conservator of Forests,

Mangalore Circle, Mangalore for his outstanding guidance and unstinted

support in preparing the menu script.

I gratefully, acknowledge Sri. Suresh Shetty ACF, Kundapur Sub

Division and Sri. Prashanth and Sri Austin Soans Range Forest Officers,

who enthusiastically participated in this revision work by providing

information and many valuable suggestions. I owe a great deal to all

those scientist, academicians and office staff whose hard work has

contributed substantially to this management plan.

Date ; 30-10-2010 (PRAKASH S. NETALKAR IFS)

Place; Karkala Deputy Conservator of Forests,

Kudremukh Wildlife Division,

Karkala,

K

CONTENTS

PART – I

THE PROTECTED AREAS; THE EXISTING SITUATION

PAGE NO.

CHAPTER – I ; INTRODUCTION TO THE AREA. 1-2

CHAPTER – II ; TRACT DEALT WITH 3-5

CHAPTER – III ; FLORA AND FAUNA 6-10

CHAPTER – IV ; PAST HISTORY AND PRESENT PRACTICES 11-19

PART –II

PROPOSED MANAGEMENT

CHAPTER – V ; THREAT AND ANALYSIS 20-29

CHAPTER – VI ; PLAN OBJECTIVES AND PROBLEMS 30-31

CHAPTER – VII ; STRATEGIES 32-38

CHAPTER – VIII ; HABITAT PROTECTION AND PROBLEMS 39-44

CHAPTER- IX ; ECO- TOURISM 45-51

CHAPTER – X ; ECO- DEVELOPMENT 52-55

CHAPTER – XI ; PUBLICITY, RESEARCH AND MONITORING 56-60

CHAPTER – XII ; BUDGET & PROGRAMME OF WORKS. 61-62

ANNEXURES

PAGE NO

1 Annexure -I & 1(a) Final Notification & 79 Notification 63 & 63(a)

2 Annexure -II Survey Number wise details of sanctuary 64-66

3 Annexure -III List of flora 67-68

4 Annexure -IV List of species identified in Kollur MPCA by the FRLHT 69-75

5 Annexure V List of plantations 76-78

6 Annexure VI List of fauna found in the sanctuary 79-80

7 Annexure VI (A) List of Avifauna found in the sanctuary 81

8 Annexure VII Description of all the blocks and compartments and

their allotment to the beats and sections 82

9 Annexure-VIII Building details 83

10 Annexure-IX Summary of Expenditure for development of

Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary for the last 6 years 84

11 Annexure-X Demographic details which are proposed for rehabilitation 85

12 Annexure-XI Demographic details and cattle population of revenue

villages (including Kollur, Mavinkaru and Halliberu) 86

13 Annexure-XII Farmers in and around the sanctuary posses licensed

weapons forests crop protection 87

14 Annexure-XIII List of required executive staff 88

15 Annexure-XIV The program of indicating the year, quantity of work and

their financial implications 89-97

16 Annexure – XV Do’s & don’ts 98

17 Annexure – XVI Fire crisis Management Plan 99

PLATES

1 A map of the sanctuary showing different reserved forests is furnished in Plate 1

2 Vegetation map of the sanctuary is furnished on Plate-2

3 Organizational flow chart is given in Plate-3

4 Beats and sections have been reorganized in terms of the compartments as

indicated in the flow chart at Plate-4

5 The sanctuary has fairly well established infrastructure furnished in Plate -5

6 Map of the existing and proposed areas is furnished in Plate – 6

7 The map of Eco-sensitive zone is given in Plate -7

8 Section Maps – Plate 8-11

TABLES

1 Table-1 : List of Reserve Forests 1-2

2 Table-2 : Abstract of Plantations. 7

3 Table: 3- List of compartments : 13

4 Table : 4- List of patrolling tracks in Mookambika Wildlife

Sanctuary 15

5 Table: 5-List of ponds 16-17

6 Table :6 Demography of forest enclosures proposed for

rehabilitation 20

7 Table : 7 List of offence cases booked after 2002-03. 29

8 Table : 8 Revenue realized from eco tourism during the last 5

years. 51

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

PART – I

1. The area and constitution : 247.00 Sq.kms and constituted in the year1979.

2. Boundary rainfall and climate: Typical west-coast. Rainfall –5000mm average/annum

3. Flora & Fauna : Evergreen & Semi evergreen vegetation with associated fauna.

4. Past history & present organization: Largely clear felled areas except on steep slopes.

Consists of 30 compartments in 4 sections and 10 beats

5. Problems: Fragmentation and heavy biotic interference.

PART – II

6. a) Objectives : Protection and conservation

b) Plan period : 5 years –January 2011-December 2015

7. Strategies :

a) Reorganizing the areas to cover Baregundi RF, Kilandur RF Naganakalbare

RF, Kodachadri RF and Chakra Rf.

b) Zonation : Core zone in compartments 5 to 12, 14,15,17 & 18 and ecosensitive

zone of 2to 5 kms around the sanctuary.

c) Relocation and rehabilitation of 14 enclosures excluding Mavinkarau,

Halliberu and Basriberu.

d) Eco-development committees for fringe villages.

8. Habitat management and protection:

a) Soil and water conservation measures

b) Maintenance of waterholes and salt licks

c) Regular boundary maintenance

d) Enhanced patrolling

9. Tourism and research:

a) Nature camp at Anejari is developed to accommodate tourists and school

childrens to create awareness on forests and wildlife and its importance.

b) Mainly tourism to be carried out by trekking and adventure sports. Children

have adventure games for their play

c) Co-ordinate the institutional research

d) Train the staff periodically on legal aspects and latest changes in the rules of

the Forest Department.

10. Budget, programme of works and monitoring:

a) Works programmed in accordance with priority

b) Deviations to be sanctioned by the Chief Wildlife Warden

c) Control forms should be submitted

d) Cost of plan programmes

2011-12 – Rs. 159.96 lakh

2012-13 – Rs. 186.06 lakh

2013-14 – Rs. 187.88 lakh

2014-15– Rs. 182.97 lakh

2015-16—Rs 187.07 lakh

Total plan cost - 903.94 lakhs

LOCATION OF MOOKAMBIKA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

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1.1.1- Name, location and area :

Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary has been

named after goddess “Mookambika” the

presiding deity of the famous Mookambika

temple at Kollur located at the heart of the

Sanctuary. It is situated in Kundapur Taluk of

Udupi district in Karnataka state. It lies between

13o 42’ and 13

o 59’ north latitude and 74

o 39’ to

74o 50’ east longitude. The Government of

Karnataka in its notification no. AFD.48.FWL.74, dated : 17-06-1974 declared its intention to

constitute Mookambika Wildlife sanctuary and confirmed the formation of Sanctuary vide

Notification no. AFD.48.FWL.74, dated : 22-05-1978. the sanctuary is spread over 247 sq. kms.

Notification of the sanctuary is furnished at Annexure – 1. and Final Notification of the

sanctuary is furnished at Annexure – 1(a)

To begin with the sanctuary was under the control of Kundapur Forest Division. As per the

government of Karnataka order no. AHFF.83. FNG.92, dated : 08-05-1992, administration of the

sanctuary was brought under the newly constituted Kudremukh Wildlife Division, Karkala.

List of 15 reserved forests declared under section 16 of the Madras Forest Act (V of 1823)

which now constitute the sanctuary is as under :

Table-1 : List of Reserve Forests

Sl.No Name of the

reserved forests

Extent

(in Acres) Declared RF in G.O Taluk

1 Jannalane 666.20 247 Rev, dated: 20-03-1893 Kundapur

2 Gunduberu 1986.60 274 Rev, dated: 05-04-1893 Kundapur

3 Talburane 583.00 359 Rev, dated: 01-05-1893 Kundapur

4 Korakoppadahola 405.80 359 Rev, dated: 01-05-1893 Kundapur

5 Harmannupare 596.50 195 Rev, dated: 09-03-1894 Kundapur

6 Abbigudde 1281.30 230 Rev, dated: 04-06-1896 Kundapur

Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary Management Plan January 2011 – December 2015

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7 Murkodihola 749.45 984 Rev, dated: 24-11-1897 Kundapur

8 Nujinane 638.70 7 Rev, dated: 05-01-1898 Kundapur

9 Mudagalpare 5813.80 556 Rev, dated: 28-09-1898 Kundapur

10 Chittor 1781.10 654 Rev, dated: 07-11-1898 Kundapur

11 Nagankalbare 4880.13 675 Rev, dated: 14-11-1899 Kundapur

12 Meganivalley 13828.20 539 Rev, dated: 12-08-1899 Kundapur

13 Hulmurdibare 5472.00 205 Rev, dated: 27-03-1899 Kundapur

14 Korthikalbare 5507.00 257 Rev, dated: 22-04-1899 Kundapur

15 Madibare 16844.00 223 Rev, dated: 02-04-1899 Kundapur

Total 61033.78 or

24700.00ha

A map of the sanctuary showing different reserved forests is furnished in

PLATE – 1. Sy.No.wise details of sanctuary area are furished in ANNEXURE - II

1.1.2- Approach and access :

The sanctuary is approachable by all weather roads from Kundapur (35 kms),

Byndoor (25 kms), and Shimoga (130 Kms). Nearest Railway station is Mookambika

Railway Station, Byndoor, which is 28 kms. Nearest airport is Mangalore (Bajpe) – about

140 kms from Kollur.

Belkallu Theertha Falls


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2.1.1- Boundaries :

The boundaries of the Sanctuary are fully described in the gazette notification

furnished at Annexure-1. It starts from Uttar Kannada district border on its north near Shiroor

and runs along inter-district boundary till the head of Chakra dam. Then turning west, it goes

up to Halejaddu near Aloor and then turns north and goes back to the starting point Via

Chittur, Areshirur and Ganganadu village limits. The sanctuary is honeycombed by extensive

habitations in the southern half and only ribbons of forest traverse the terrain. They are like

islands in a sea of habitations. Boundaries of each forest are defined.

2.1.2- Geology, rock and soil :

The sanctuary covers western slopes

of Western Ghats. The terrain is hilly and

very undulating. The underlying geological

formation is of archaic origin. The ghat

forests are principally of genesis

composition, interspersed occasionally by

quartzite, mica-schist and granite, out crops

which, occur in long stretches along the

sharp edges of the Ghats. The upper reaches

of the Ghats, which form the eastern boundary of the sanctuary consists predominantly of

rock precipices and are completely inaccessible. These rock cliffs are very steep and exposed

over long stretches. Wild plantain and grass slips grow in the depressions of these cliffs.

Peculiar feature of the genesis found here is its readiness to decompose into reddish

felspathic clay, which after exposures forms into hard brittle substance known as laterite.

Laterite is formed extensively all over the plains and foothills of this tract. Presence of large

quantities of ferruginous matter is another characteristic feature of this gneiss. Quartz is

frequently identifiable in the original rocks in the foothills and to a lesser extent in the plains.

It is found as separate nodules or small crystals. The foothill portions are characterized by

soft laterite formed by the decomposition of original gneissic rock. The brownish friable

loam, often reaches to considerable depth and is an indication of the capacity of the soil to

Mudgalpare water tank

tank


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support good deciduous or semi-evergreen forests. The underlying rock is invariably gneiss,

sometimes outcropping in the form of boulders. In the plain portions, the rock is decisively

laterite. Soil conditions vary in quality, depth and consistency. On the Ghats, soil is dark or

brownish loam of moderate depth, admixed with gneissic or quartzite boulders. Humus and

unrecompensed vegetable matter are in plenty. The foothill portions contain fairly deep

brownish friable clayey loam covered by a moderately thick layer of decomposed and un

decomposed vegetable matter, which are rich in organic constituents. The surface soil in the

plains and littoral portions consist of gravel or disintegrated laterite, covering a hard lateritic

pan. In the neighborhood of villages, the forest soils are much impoverished by the heavy

demands by ryots for mulch; both dry and green , for manure. The deep reddish loamy soil

rich with humus occurring at foothills supports a fairly good deciduous and semi evergreen

type of forests.

2.1.3- Terrain :

The sanctuary includes steep

slopes of Western Ghat as well as a small area of

foothills. The average elevation is 300 meters

with Kodachadri being the highest point at 1363

meters the altitudes at different locations are

Salageri 102 meteres, Luksal 200 meters,

Karikatte 607 meters and Megini 586 meters the

main hill range drops steeply, branches off twice

in the north-west and the north-east direction thus

forming the Megini valley and Arasingundi valley respectively. Mookambika temple stands

on the spur of Kodachadri peak.

2.1.4 –Climate :

The weather is cool from November to January. It becomes increasingly hot and

sultry from February till the onset of monsoon. The climate is generally humid and warm

throughout the year due to the proximity to sea and consequently under goes limited diurnal

changes. Rainfall is very heavy from June to August. The south-west monsoon is really

torrential. Rainfall distribution is very uneven. Average rainfall close to 6000 mm/annum.

The temperature at low elevation ranges from 10o to 35

o c. at higher elevations it is much

cooler. At the crest of the western ghats (near Nagodi checking gate), the temperate ranges

from 18o to 30

o C. Annual rainfall of Kolur for the past 10 years is represented in the

following bar chart.

Kodachadri Hills


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Figure 1: Rain fall data of Kollur Range (source Agriculture dept. Koondapur)

Winter months of November and December are cool with heavy mist at night. The

north-east monsoon is very insignificant. Summer starts in the month of January and till the

on set of monsoon.

2.1.5- Water sources :

Rivers Chakra and Sowparnika drain the sanctuary. These are perennial rivers. In

addition, there are a good number of streams and nalas. Some of which are also perennial.

Rivers, streams and nalas flow full brim during rainy season i.e. from June to September. A

large number of roaring waterfalls saw all over the sanctuary during monsoon transform

themselves into a small number of soft crystal clear streams in summer. Water availability

gradually goes down from November to

February. Most of the streams and nalas dry

up by February/March and water becomes

scarce till the arrival of monsoon. There are

a number of artificial ponds all over the

sanctuary. some of these ponds and tanks

also dry up after March. Heavy rainfall and

excessive runoff in steep gradients is

occasionally seen to result in soil erosion.


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3.1.1- Forest types :

Forest types in the protected area are varied and rich. Moist deciduous forests occur at

lower altitude, especially the foothills. West coast semi-evergreen and west-coast tropical

evergreen forests occur at mid altitudes and white typical shola-grass land vegetation is found

at higher altitudes. Composition of these forests is as under as per Champion & Seth

classification.

3.1.2- West coast tropical evergreen forests (IA/C4):

Evergreen species are chiefly confined to higher elevations of ghats. Some of the

important species occurring in the top canopy are Dipterocarpus indicus (Dhuma),

Poeciloneuron indicum (Baligi) Calophyllum tomentosum (Surahonne), Hopea parviflora

(Kiralbhogi), Machilus mecarantha (Gulmavu), Palaquium ellipticum (pali), Acrocarpus

fraxinifolius (Belangi), Bischofia javanicca (Nerulli), Eugenia gardineria etc.

Middle storey consists of Myristica species (Rampatre), Cryota urens (Bagane),

Elaeocarpus species (Maite), Schleichera oleosa (Chakatte), Aporosa linleyana (Salle) etc.

The under growth mainly consists of strobilanthes (Gurgi) and tangle of Calamus

(Betha).

3.1.3- West coast semi-evergreen forests (2A/C2) :

This type occurs in the ghat slopes especially logged areas. There is a more liberal

admixture of evergreen and deciduous species in the top canopy.

The principal species occurring in the top canopy are Terminalia paniculata (Hunalu),

Terminalia tomentosa (Matti), Lagerstromia lanceolata (Nandi), Machilus mecharantha

(Gulmavu), Lophopetalum wightianum (Bolpale), Mangifera indica (Mavu), Vitex altissima

(Naviladi), Hopea parviflora (kiralbhogi), Eugenia species, Artocarpus hirsute (Hebbalsu),

Cinnamomum species (Dalchinni) etc.

Middle canopy consist of Holigarna arnottiana (chara), Fagara budrunga (Jumma),

Dillenia pentagyna (Kanagalu), Hopea wightiana (Haiga), Syzygium species (Neralu), Olea

dioica (Akkasalle), Aporosa lindleyana (Salle) etc.

Strobilanthes (Gurgi), Clerodendron infrotuntum (Taggi), Leea indica, Calamus

species (Betta) etc., form the ground cover.


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3.1.4- Southern secondary moist mixed deciduous forests (3B/C2/2SI) :

This type occurs in the foothill portions of ghat and plains. The top canopy consists of

Terminalia paniculata (Hunalu), Bombax ceiba (Booruga), Mangifera indica (Mavu),

Dalbergia latifolia (Beete), Schleichera oleosa (Sagadi), Dillenia pentagyna ( Kanagalu),

Adina cardifolia (Yettega), Alstonia scholaris (Maddale) etc.

Middle canopy consists of Olea dioica (Aksalle), Careya arborea (Kavalu), Emblica

officinalis (Nelli), Strychnos nux-vomica (Kasan) etc.

The under growth consists of Clerodendron infrotuntum (Taggi), Helecteres isora

(Kowry), Acacia intsia (Kadu seege), Holarrhena pubescens (Haale) etc.

3.1.5- Dry grass lands (5 DS 4) :

The area consists of species like Bauhinia vahlii (Basavanpadadballi), Emblica

officinalis (Nelli), Careya arborea (Kavalu) in addition to grass and is generally found on the

hilltops. These are believed to be abandoned cultivation of past.

List of flora is furnished in ANNEXURE-III Vegetation map of the sanctuary is

furnished on Plate-2.

One medicinal plant conservation area was formed in Madibare (South) near Dali

Enclosures with the help of FRLHT, Bangalore with an objective to conserve medicinal

plants such as Saraca asoka. Apart from Saraca , another 29 species of red listed medicinal

plants have been recorded from the MPCA. List of species identified in Kollur MPCA by

the FRLHT is appended in ANNEXURE-IV .

Low elevation forests were worked heavily in the past and pure plantations such as

teak, cashew, Acacia, Casuarinas and softwood species have been raised since 1934 over an

extent of 1455 ha. After the wildlife Division came into existence, enrichment/gap plantations

have been raised to an extent of 185 ha. List of plantations is appended in Annexure-V

Table-2 : Abstract of Plantations.

ABSTRACT

1. Teak 181.58

2. Soft wood 442.47

3. Cashew 523.50

4. Fuelwood 282.65

5. Fruit & MFP 209.53

6. EDC plantation 420.00

7. Saraca 20.00

Total 2079.30


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The monoculture plantations have altered the natural habitat irreversibly. Weeds like

Eupatorium invaded many of them.

Forage and grasses are available in plenty almost throughout the year. Herbivores

feed on fruits of Emblica officinalis (Nelli), Bombax ceiba (Booraga), Ficus species,

Artocarpus hirsuta (Hebbalasu), Mangifera indica (Mavu) etc. are also found.

3.1.6- Fauna :

Fauna found in the sanctuary are as follows. Detailed list is enclosed in Annexure VI.

3.1.7- Prey animals :

a) Spotted deer (Axis axis) : These animals prefer somewhat open forest areas. They are

found in southern and western parts of the sanctuary . They are normally seen in

Mudagalpare, Chottor, Jannalane, Gundubereu, Harmannupare reserves and also in older

cashew plantation areas near Alur. Normally they are noticed in groups of 5 to 8.

b) Sambar (Cervus unicolor) : Sambar is found unevenly distributed over the sanctuary.

It inhabits slopes containing thick jungle mixed with open grasslands. They are found in

herds of 3 to 5.

c) Gaur or Indian bison (Bos gaurus) : This animal

is found all over the sanctuary. Its presence is

common along the eastern boundary of the sanctuary.

It is normally noticed in groups 5 to 10. during

summer, they are seen in early morning or twilight

hours grazing in the grasslands. Crop raids are

common along the southwest. Indian Gaur (Bison)

d) Indian wild boar (Sus serofa) : Wild boar is commonly seen all over the sanctuary.

They are the common pests to agricultural crops.

e) Indian porcupine (Hystrix indica) : These rodents prefer rocky hill sides and are

normally sighted along hill ridges and foothills.

f) Indian hare (Lepus nigricelis) : Found commonly all over the sanctuary.

g) Barking deer or Muntjac (Muntiacus muntjac) : This sanctuary is an ideal habitat

for these animals. Normally found in dense forests, it comes out to open for grazing and

browsing in the nights. It is timid and shy animal.

h) Mouse deer (Tragulus meminna) : It is seldom found in forests.


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i) Common Langur (Presbytis entellus) : This arboreal mammal is normally seen in

dense forest. Population density is very thin.

j) Bonnet macaque (Macaca radiata) : This arboreal mammal is found in the edges

along roads and enclosures. They do not enter interior forests, as do the common langurs.

k) Lion tailed macaque (Macaca silenus) : This is an endangered primate found only in

dense evergreen forests of mid western ghats at an altitude of 400 to 700 meters above

mean sea level. It is found in groups of 5 to 25. they are reported from Megini valley,

around Arasingundi falls and Nagankalbare RF. As per the 2006 study report taken up by

this division it is found that there are 6 groups of LTM and numbering 73 compared to

their number 94 in the year 1985 (karanth)

3.1.8 – Predators :

Tiger (Panthera tigress) : It is found in the higher altitudes especially along the hill

ridges where the gaur and sambar population is high. Movements of tigers were

observed in Haddinbare and Nagankalbare reserves.

Leopard or Panther (Panthera pardus) : This wild animal is found in fairly good

number in mild and lower altitudes, especially towards the forest edges. Black panther

are also reported from Megini valley reserve forest.

Indian wild dog (Cuon alpinus) : Presence of wild dogs is confirmed by scats.

Their spread overlaps with tiger as well as panthers.

Python and King cobra : The sanctuary has a good population of these reptiles.

3.1.9- Scavengers :

Jackal (Canis avreus) is the chief scavenger of the sanctuary. Vultures have not

been recorded in the sanctuary.

3.1.10- Other associates :

Indian elephant (Elephas maximus) ; There was only one feral elephant

inhabiting Meginivalley Reserve Forest. It has a fixed seasonal migratory route

from Bavadi to Karni. It feeds mainly on reeds and caryota plants. This was found

dead naturally on 29-12-2007 inside the Megini valley RF.

Sloth bear (Melursus ursinus) : Sloth bears are normally found in higher

elevations. There are reports of bears attacking human beings in the recent years

especially in summers when they come to feed on the fruits of phoenix humilis


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3.1.11- Other animals found :

Gaint squirrel (Ratufa indica) : It is an

arboreal mammal normally restricted to the

relatively undisturbed areas of the forests. Most of

the time the animal is found on the tree crowns in

the dense forests. Flying squirrel (Benus

hylopeteres), Land monitor lizard (Varanus grisens),

Tortoises also occur in the sanctuary. Cane turtle – a

rare species, which is on the verge of extinct, is seen

rarely around Dali. List of fauna found in the sanctuary are furnished at ANNEXURE-VI.

3.1.12- Avifauna :

The sanctuary has a good population of a variety of

birds typical to the western ghats of Karnataka. Avifauna

found in the Sanctuary include Jungle myna, Peafowl,

Common fowl, Common myna, Red vented bulbul, Little

cormorant, Cattle egret, Little egret, Black drongo, Jungle

crow, Crow pheasant, White cheeked bulbul, Brahminy kite,

Grey jungle fowl, Pea fowl, White breasted water hen, Red

wattled lapwinger, Spotted dove, Blue rock pigeon, White

breasted king fisher, Malabar grey hornbill, Golden backed

threetoed wood pecker, Scarlet minicret, Ashy swallow shrike,

Paradise fly catcher, Magpie robin, Taylor bird, Purple sunbird, White backed munia, Golden

oriole. Great Indian Hornbill is sighted in Megini and Nagankalbare forests. List of Avifauna

found in the sanctuary are furnished at ANNEXURE-VI (a).


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4.1.1- General history:

In the early part of nineteenth century , under the British administration, general

public were keen on extending their cultivation. As a result , large forest areas were cleared

for the purpose of cultivation. Between 1822 and 1860, forests suffered severely due to the

commencement of Kumri or shifting cultivation. About 4856ha of forest land was brought

under the Kumri in Byndoor and Kundapur forest ranges. From 1882 onwards some portions

of Government forests were constituted into reserve forests under the Indian Forest act to

afford better protection. Till 1916 all the forests of South Kanara district were under one

forest division known as South Kanara forest Division.

The year 1912 marks the preparation of systematic working plan for Mangalore Forest

Division by Foulks. In his plan, timber-working circle covering the non-kumaried and

accessible areas in the neighborhood of Halkal, Megini valley and Madibare reserve forests

was constituted and coupes were worked as per plan prescriptions. From 1923 onwards

fellings were done without adhering to any working plan provisions forests generating

revenue.

Under the working plan prescription of P.N.Davies (1932 to 1942) about 24,280 ha

of timber bearing areas of Megini valley, Madibare, Andar and Someshwara reserves were

brought under timber working circle. This silvicultural system adopted was selection with a

rotation of 90 years and a felling cycle of 30 years.

In the working plan of B.S.Keshav Vittal for Dakshina Kannada (1943-44-1957-58) a

timber selection working circle over an extent of 4046ha. was included from the plain area.

C.J. Fernandes drafted next working plan for entire Dakshina Kannada district in 1963. This

working plan was not approved but the same served as guide for the purpose of working. Sri

Erappa prepared a working plan for Kundapur forest Division for the period 1977-92 but

unfortunately printing of the plan was badly delayed till 1988 by which time several changes

were made in the management practices.


12

As a result, this plan hardly played any role in the management of the sanctuary areas

except to the extent of removal of canes, NTFPs and dead and fallen trees. In the absence of

systematic working plan in the post independence era, forests were worked in the past by

various agencies under several independent schemes for extraction of plywood, matchwood,

sleepers, fuel wood etc. without assessing silvi cultural needs of the forests. These extractions

were revenue oriented. Large gaps were created and much young regeneration was sacrificed

over a period of seven decades. Heavily logged areas have failed in patches to regenerate

especially where the bed is rocky. Such areas are frequently met with in the lower slopes.

They contain nothing but impenetrable thickets and tangle of climbers-mostly thorny and

canes. All flat areas were clear felled as fuel coupes. Accessible slopes were logged for

timber and plywood. Small pockets were converted into Teak, Cashew, softwood and fuel

wood plantations at the foothills.

In 1987, Government of Karnataka imposed a ban on felling of green trees in the

forest areas. Removal of timber forests sleepers, matchwood, plywood and fuel wood was

stopped completely. As a result heavily worked areas of the past got rest. However extraction

of dead and fallen trees and cane continued under the Kundapur forest Division up to 1995 in

the sanctuary area.

As per the information available in

the gazetteer of 1883 and earlier working

plan documents, there was indiscriminate

killing of Tiger, bison, Sambar and Lion

tailed macaque for skin, claws, meat,

trophy and pharmaceutical requirements.

As a result, the population of wild animals

dwindled considerably and some species

were on the verge of extinction. With the

implementation of the Wildlife

(Protection) Act 1972 and increasing awareness about nature conservation, poaching

activities have come down considerably.


13

4.1.2- Administrative set up :

The Deputy Conservator of Forests, Kudremukh Wildlife Division, Karkala is the

controlling authority of Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary. Under the supervision of Assistant

Conservator of Forests, Wildlife Sub Division , Kundapura, one Range Forest officer, 4

foresters and 10 beat guards are engaged in protection and management of the sanctuary.

Organizational flow chart is given in Plate-3.

4.1.3- Organization of forest areas :

Forest areas of the sanctuary were divided in the past in to blocks and compartments

on the map for the purpose of each management plan. However, there was no demarcation on

the ground. Since the objectives of management of these areas have undergone a sea change,

their organization has also been recast. The entire area is now divided into 30 compartments

as under :

Table: 3- List of compartments :

Natural features such as prominent streams, hill ridges, patrolling tracks and high ways have

been used as compartment boundaries. The beats and sections are reconstituted so as to be co-

terminus with the newly constituted compartments. Description of all the blocks and

compartments and their allotment to the beats and sections concerned is furnished in

ANNEXURE-VII. Maps showing the new arrangement have to be provided up to the beat

level. A miniature map of the area organization is provided Plate-3.

Sl.No Name of the reserved forests No.of Compartments

1 Hulimurdibare RF 2

2 Korthikalbare 2

3 Megini valley 6

4 Madibare 6

5 Nagankalbare 2

6 Mudagalpare 3

7 Remaining 9 reserved forests 9

Total 30


14

Demarcation of compartment boundary and beat boundary has to be marked on the ground as

per map. Beats and sections have been reorganized in terms of the compartments as

indicated in Plate-.4

4.1.4- Infrastructure :

The sanctuary has fairly well established infrastructure. Details are furnished in

Annexure-VIII and in plate -.5 However, these need to be maintained regularly and funds

set aside for the same.

4.1.5- Wireless ;

Wireless network established by the

division was also extended to the sanctuary. One

wireless static set is provided to Range forest

Officer, Kollur. One mobile set is fitted to the jeep

of Assistant Conservator of Forest and a second

one in the Range Forest Officer’s Jeep. All the

foresters and forest guards are provided with

walkie talkies. Repeater is established at

Kodachadri. The network covers the sanctuary adequately except the northern parts beyond

Ganganadu. However, with the mobile sets in use and due to inadequate maintenance the

wireless network has came to a standstill and the wireless sets will be sent back to the

division.

4.1.6- Patrolling tracks :

Practically no good patrolling tracks existed

in the sanctuary till 2002. several new short

patrolling tracks of 1-2 kms were formed around

Kollur township forests for use of tourists. But

none of them were used for the purpose. Seven new

patrolling tracks were constructed during 2002-03

to create access to the interior parts. The new tracks

are as under.


15

Table : 4- List of patrolling tracks in Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary :

Sl.

No

Name of the reserved

forest Places connected

Distance

(in kms)

1 Megini & Korathikalbare Goligudde to Hulkadike 14

2 Megini Masthikatte-Mukthihalla link road 06

3 Madibare Dali to Gundinhole 25

4 Mudagalpare Hosur to Kundlabail 09

5 Mudagalpare Shalejaddu to Mudgal 05

6 Gunduberu Naikodi to Jannal 6.5

7 Madibare Kochalmakki to Jadkal 6.5

Total 72 kms.

The patrol track network adequately covers almost 80% of the sanctuary area except

the southern and northern extensions. These tracks require bridges and culverts for round the

year use. Of these roads only the last one is meant for tourists, rest are patrol roads.

4.1.7-Entry barriers:

Every patrolling track is provided with entry and exit barriers (Steel gates). These are

permanent structures with lock and key. Keys are deposited with officers only. They are

always maintained in closed and locked condition. They should be greased and painted every

year.

4.1.8-Vehicles:

One jeep is provided to Range Forest officer and one is provided to Assistant

Conservator of Forests. The vehicles are old and in poor condition and hence needs

replacements. There is no separate vehicle meant for tourists exclusively. There is need for

one more vehicle for the tourists to go round the sanctuary and patrolling during the fire

season. The present Jeeps are 10 to 13 years old and hence the protection works gets

hampered. It is proposed to buy two new vehicles during the plan period.


16

4.1.9-Buildings:

Under the preceding plan buildings were built up but needs regular maintenance to keep

it updated with the little budget available buildings are in poor condition. Building details are

furnished in ANNEXURE- VIII. Infrastructure map is furnished in Plate-5.

4.1.10- Waterholes :

Quite a number of ponds were made mainly by

bunding across streams. Some were breached and damaged

by crabs. Very few are serving the purpose. list of the

ponds are furnished below.

Table:5-List of ponds to be maintained are as

follows:-:

Sl.No Name of the reserved forests Pond location Seasonal or

perennial

Maintained /Not

maintained

1 Madibare RF Hoseri Perennial Maintained

2 Madibare RF Nuksal Perennial Maintained

3 Madibare RF Donigadde Seasonal Not Maintained

4 Madibare RF Haddinbare Perennial Maintained

5 Madibare RF Benagalmuri Seasonal Not Maintained

6 Madibare RF Karekatte Perennial Maintained

7 Madibare RF Hulibayi Perennial Maintained

8 Megini RF Dali Seasonal Maintained

9 Megini RF Otemuri Seasonal Not Maintained

10 Megini RF Sampre Seasonal Not Maintained

11 Megini RF Halliberu Seasonal Maintained

12 Megini RF Yakshimane Perennial Maintained

13 Megini RF Mundikere Seasonal Not Maintained

14 Megini RF Bavadikere Seasonal Not Maintained

15 Megini RF Badragundi Seasonal Not Maintained

16 Korthikalbare RF Kambalgadde Perennial Maintained

17 Korthikalbare RF Gudikere Perennial Maintained

18 Madibare(S) Chikkasal Seasonal Not maintained


17

19 Nagankalbare RF Kabbinale Perennial Maintained

20 Nagankalbare RF Kotiguli Perennial Not Maintained

21 Mudagalpare RF Sulamunda Perennial Maintained

22 Mudagalpare RF Kyansi Seasonal Maintained

23 Mudagalpare RF Kasarkankere Seasonal Maintained

24 Hulimurdibare RF Ashwini Seasonal Not Maintained

25 Hulimurdibare RF Akkachankere Perennial Maintained

26 Hulimurdibare RF Sagovanithota Seasonal Not Maintained

27 Hulimurdibare RF Belakodlu Seasonal Not Maintained

28 Hulimurdibare RF Kosallirohi Seasonal Not Maintained

29 Madibare RF Anejari Seasonal Maintained

30 Madibare RF Subbanthoplu Seasonal Not Maintained

31 Madibare RF Salageri Seasonal Maintained

32 Madibare RF Olur Seasonal Not Maintained

33 Korathikalbare Balkodlukere Seasonal Maintained

34 Madibare Lingayyanakodlu

kere Seasonal Maintained

35 Hulimurdibare Damanikere Seasonal Not Maintained

36 Madibare Haddinabarekere Seasonal Maintained

37 Meginivalley Goliguddekere Seasonal Not Maintained

38 Meginivalley Devaragaddekere Seasonal Not Maintained

39 Madibare Dalikere Seasonal Maintained

40 Madibare Hulallikere Seasonal Not Maintained

41 Madibare Soolikere Seasonal Maintained

42 Madibare Nambimanekodl

ukere Seasonal Maintained

43 Mudgalpare Hulikodlukere Seasonal Maintained

44 Nagankalbare Aramanekodlu Seasonal Maintained

45 Hulimurdibare Kyarthuru Seasonal Maintained

46 Hulimurdibare Ambikana Seasonal Maintained

47 Madibare Dali Seasonal Maintained

48 Meginivalley Siddeshwarabare Seasonal Maintained

49 Mudgalpare Chittur Seasonal Maintained

50 Mudgalpare Haladikere Seasonal Maintained


18

4.1.11- Watch towers:

There are two old watchtowers –one at

Pavitravana and second near Jadkal school. They

have not been maintained and therefore they are not

in good condition. Every hill peak works as watch

tower. And there is a newly constructed RCC watch

tower in the Anejari Nature Camp constructed during

the year 2008-09.

4.1.12- Tourism :

Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary has a number of panoramic scenes and religious

attractions as under :

Kollur Mookambika temple

Arasinagundi water falls

Kodachadri hill top and sarvagna peeta

Belkal theertha falls

Abbi falls

Anejari nature camp

Mudagal cave temple

Kosalli Falls Arasinagundi water falls

Other places of interest around sanctuary are Maravanthe beach (25 kms from Kollur)

and Ottinane sunset view point (10kms from Byndoor). Endangered species of Olive riddley

is found on Maravanthe beach and a conservation centre is established by the Territorial

division to hatch the eggs and leave them in the sea so that the birds and human beings do not

destroy the eggs.

The sanctuary attracts many bird watchers, nature lovers, students and trekkers. To

encourage tourism, one nature camp has been established at Anejari (Madibare RF).


19

There are four 10 tents and a forest rest house with a lecture hall and a kitchen. However

public utilization of these facilities is gaining importance.

In the previous plan, a tourism zone has been indicated covering an area of 42 sq.km.

around Kollur township in Madibare reserve forest, Korathikalbare RF and Korakoppadahola

RF. Tourism zone was earlier traversed by short run patrolling tracks, which were hardly

used. New Nature trails are also formed for nature lovers to study and cultivate love to nature.

They are:-

1 Birders trial 3 Nature trails

2 Butterfly trial 4 Arashinagundi trails

Saltlicks are provided along the banks of Sowparnika river to attract wild animals in

to the tourism zone.

4.1.13- Expenditure on development works:

Summary of expenditure for development of Mookambika wildlife sanctuary for the

last 6 years is furnished at ANNEXURE- IX

Michelia champaka flower


20

5.1.1- General :

The sanctuary has number of problems, Within the sanctuary, the pressures vary from

place to place. The northern part and southern part of the sanctuary represent two contrasting

scenarios – the north having very little habitations but facing people from the boundaries who

use the forest much the same way like their ancestral property; the south being under seize by

the dense population who stay all around the forest and put it to use from moment to moment

for all purposes.

The sanctuary proper is covered by 14 Enclosures belonging to 8 revenue villages.

Demographic details which are proposed for rehabilitation is furnished at ANNEXURE-X

Abstract is furnished here under.

Table : 6- Demography of forest Enclosures proposed for rehabiltation :

Sl.No Particulars Units Quantity

1 No.of Families In No. 108

2 No.of people In No. 674

3 No.of cattle In No. 771

4 Extent of patta lands Acres 329.09

5 Extent of Govt land encroachment Acres 87.36

6 Extent of Forest land encroachment Acres 15.60

Kollur, Halliberu and Mavinkar are the three major Enclosures within the sanctuary.

They are close to Kollur township and it will not be possible to consider rehabilating them

during the plan period. There are 14 other villages in a radial distances of 5km from

sanctuary boundary with over 45,000 human populations and 26,000 cattle population.

Demographic details of such revenue villages (including Kollur, Mavinkaru and Halliberu)

are furnished in ANNEXURE- XI agriculture is the most important activity. People in rural

areas cultivate paddy, cashew, areca nut, rubber, coconut, pepper, banana etc. due to spurt


21

in the price of areca nut in the recent past, many farmers have converted part of their paddy

field in to areca garden. Sizeable population of fringe villages depends on the sanctuary

forests their biomass requirements. With the ban on extraction of timber, firewood and NTFP,

down sized planting and allied activities, the landless farmers and marginal landholders have

to find alternate employment, which is not easy to come by. So to supplement their income.

People draw upon the resources of the sanctuary.

DETAILS OF EACH TYPE OF PRESSURE THAT THE SANCTUARY IS

UNDER ARE DESCRIBED IN THE FOLLOWING PARAGRAPHS.

Leopard kill

5.1.2- Poaching:

With the implementation of the

Wildlife (protection) Act, 1972, hunting got

totally prohibited in the state since 1975.

But farmers in and around the sanctuary

posses 649 licensed weapons for crop

protection as shown in ANNEXURE-XII.

Poaching is very rare and it is

confined to small fauna. This is controlled

by patrolling round the clock by the staff

and creating general awareness about the

conservation policies among the people

through EDCs. Panther killed by Poachers


22

5.1.3- Illegal felling of trees :

Illegal removal of firewood and small timber is an age old practice of villagers in and

around the sanctuary. Usually they collect dead and fallen materials. Sometimes green trees

are also cut. But this is very rare. Consequently degradation is seen along the fringes up to

depth of 2-3 kms. However, it is well controlled by the Range staff.

5.1.4- Illegal removal of NTFP :

Apart from agriculture, people, both tribal as well as non-tribal, derive seasonal

income from collection and selling of NTFP’s In fact this has been a tradition of tribals.

Annual income ranges between Rs. 5000/- to Rs. 10,000/- per family mainly from the

dalchini leaves, honey, rind of garcinia, soap nut etc. there is intense competition among the

inhabitants to collect forest produce as a result of which some trees are harvested completely

even before crop is mature. Driving force of this activity is poverty and unemployment.

Species affected are represented very poorly in the younger age classes.

Prior to formation of the Kudremukh Wildlife Division, right of MFP collection used

to be sold in auction or was allotted to the local LAMP society. It was revenue oriented. Once

the sanctuary came under the control of wildlife wing, legal NTFP removal is totally stopped.

In spite of restrictions, illegal removal of canes, ramapatre, halmaddi, dalchinni leaves

etc., is often and offence cases are booked, because it is auctioned in the neighbouring

territorial divisions. However the EDC’s are guided to keep a check on such illegal activities.

5.1.5-Illegal collection of leaf litter;

The practice of collecting leaf litter in large quantities in admittedly undesirable.

However , it is an age old practice and even today wide spread. Undergrowth is hacked and

well-grown trees are lopped for leaf litter. This practice not merely destroys the existing

regeneration and young saplings but it alters the soil surface conditions. People from as far as

Byndoor and Vandse collect leaf litter from near Kollur and often transport it by vehicles.

Large work forces of women are exclusively employed on collection and sale of dry leaf litter

in the summer season. Each farmer requires on an average 500 ballies for use around his

paddy cultivation during monsoon. They last hardly one season. Therefore every year, ballies

have to be cut and farmlands have to be fenced against cattle and wild animals. However, the

local villagers are target and convinced by forest staff against the illegal practices.


23

5.1-6. Cane trade;

Cane grows throughout the sanctuary and people use it very liberally for a variety of

purpose including drawing of Temple Chariots. Major use, however, is making of big baskets

to carry dry leaf mulch, medium size baskets to carry coconuts and small baskets for handling

earth and gravel. About 30% of the population residents in the sanctuary and about 10%

resident within 3 kms of the fringe are heavily dependent on the income generated from the

basket making and trade. Poverty, which is highest around the sanctuary compared to other

parts of the district, forces people in to this trade in combination with firewood head loading.

Hardly 10% of the baskets are used within the sanctuary and 90 % is sent out on trade as far

as Mangalore, Thirthahalli and Nagara. However major markets are the shadies of Kundapur

and Udupi taluks. Sanctuary area north of Melbavadi are the worst effected where the most

effected where mature canes are difficult to meet with. Same is the case on the southwest

especially in the flat areas adjoining habitations. However, this activity is well within control.

It is a good old practice of Tribals to remove canes for making baskets for domestic

use and sale at the local market. They are convinced and in search of alternative livelihoods.

5.1-7. Ganja cultivation ;

In the recent past, sanctuary is hit by the menace of illegal Ganja cultivation Ganja is

a produce of dry leaf, inflorescence and pad shells etc,. and is a mild intoxicant. The plant

commonly known as Mariejunia- botanically known as Cannabis Sativa. Though a weed in

its native habitat, is exotic to western Ghats ther is no record of when it began in the

sanctuary but cultivated plots have been in detection since 1996. the modus operandi involves

location of completely sheltered interior parts of the forest, cut down the standing trees, raise

poly bagged seedlings of mariejunia, plant them in pits at 3 meters spacement, irrigate,

fertilize and get the final produces. The site is occupied during the fag end of monsoon and

necessary rations, infrastructure and materials are assembled by the conclusion of monsoon.

Plot preparations and sowing begin by October and the first crop is harvested by end of

January.

Mookambika wildlife Sanctuary Management Plan January 2011 – December 2015

24

Unless detected, the gangs remain in the sanctuary for at least four months and cultivate the

plots in a series. The plots are used on a rotation. So far five plots were located inside the

sanctuary. Ganja cultivation is a serious problem given the fact that the biggest

conglomeration of Keralites in Mudur and Jadkal villages, which are at the heart of the

sanctuary. But no incidences are recorded since past two years.

5.1-8 Grazing;

Huge cattle population about 25,000 in and along the sanctuary perimeter provides the

backdrop for the grazing pressure on the sanctuary. Cattle are found grazing all over the

sanctuary except on the steep slopes. There is very little of grass in the thickly wooded areas.

Nevertheless since all the community lands are occupied by people for one purpose or the

other and there are no grazing grounds left, people are compelled to send their cattle in to the

sanctuary for grazing purpose. Cattle are found using whatever little grasses are available

during the monsoon. But depend on the tender shoots, flowers, ponds, etc,. in the post

monsoon months. Cattle population from the 14 enclosures within the sanctuary and 19 major

villages in the buffer zone is furnished in Annexure – XI

Cattle Grazing


25

5.1-9 – Head loading of firewood;

Sanctuary surroundings do not have any industrial employment potentials. Whatever

tile factories and brick manufacturing units that existed have almost got closed down due to

poor market economy. Land holdings around the sanctuary is also very small. The ratio

between the work force and the landholders is very high. Therefore quite a large no. of pupil

are un employed during the lean season. Forests sustenance, almost all of them depend on

head loading of firewood from the nearest jungles and selling the same in coastal areas. It is

one of the classic cases of resource depletion due to excessive dependence. Men folk either

emigrate as casual workers etc,. to Goa, Mumbai and other places or while away their time to

home. Consequently the entire hardship falls on the women who actually sustain the family

through the difficult times. Head loaders penetrates as forests as two- three kms. Inside the

sanctuary. Northern part of the sanctuary around the Ganganadu, Byndoor, Shiroor are

effected by this activity.

Kollur temple consumes fairly good quantity of dry fuel wood for various poojas.

Locals collect dry fuel and sell it to the temple. Annually the temple alone consumes 70-80

tonnes of firewood. In addition, there are 35- 40 Hotels in Kollur town catering to the needs

of the tourists. All of them are dependent on fuel wood brought from the sanctuary forests

cooking the boiled rice. Daily consumption of firewood by all these hotels is about 2 tons.

Thus, Kollur township alone consumes more than 1000 tons of fuel wood annually, all of

which is brought from the sanctuary. Nowadays many people use the LPG connection also.

5.1.10 Traffic moment on the state highway;

State highway no 52 (Kundapur – Hosanagar) passes through the sanctuary from Chittur to

Nagodi over a leanth of 30 kms. This road leads to the famous Mookambika Temple located

inside Kollur inside, which attracts, thousands of pilgrims everyday. Vehicle moment day to

night restricts the free moment of wild animals. Lot of plastic waste is thrown away on the

roads which are harmful to wildlife. Plastic removal and educating the tourists not to throw

waste on the highway is undertaken periodically by the staff which may reduce the plastic

menace.


26

5.1.11 ; Encroachments ;

Encroachment cases are negligible in the PA proper. There are only 09 encroachments

in Mudgalpare and Hulimurdibare RF. But there are many revenue encroachments along the

western boundary. These encroachments are extensions of existing cultivations in the govt.

lands. Malayalies and few locals settled in Mudur, Kollur, Jadkal, Byndoor and Yedthare

Villages are involved in this racket. They cultivate Citronella/Vativer grass, cashew, rubber

etc, on these extended lands.

This is a familiar route of stripping the land completely free of local vegetation.

Woody vegetation is first lopped and the brushwood is used for ground fire. Soil is then,

ripped open deeply/ up to 50 cms with pickaxes and turned over repeatedly so as to expose,

earthworms and other harmful soil agents. After through weathering, the site is used for

planting grasses in high density, firewood is manufactured from the neighbouring forest areas

illegally from the time of sowing so as to accumulate sufficiently large quantity by the time

of grass harvest. Every acre of cultivated grass requires one truckload – about 25 cum of high

calories fuel wood distillation. On an average, 500-600 acres of grasses are cultivated on the

govt. lands, fringing the private lands by the Malabaries. Grass cultivation is continued on the

same site till it is totally exhausted and cannot support the cultivation any more. In the mean

while standing trees on the site are girdled dried and set on fire. So as to deface the land of all

its original features. Stumps if any left out are removed manually and used as fuel. In a

period of 3-4 years, the land is completely laid bare and diverted for cultivating rubber or

cashew and the surrounding forest are also degraded. Land grabbing continues till they touch

the edge of the neighbours plot or some irredeemable landscape features such as stream,

reserve forest boundary road etc,. every inch of available non forest govt. land is grabbed

and brought under cultivation through this method by the malabaries. This practice also found

supporters from among the local farmers when the profit margin was high. Actually the

economics of grass cultivation is totally unfavorable to the Grower but, for the free firewood

which they smuggled out from the adjoining forests. It is thus a programme of land grabbing

and fleecing the surrounding forests so as to render them less suitable for the wildlife. Hence,

the compensation should be paid immediately to the farmers. This is not happening as the

amount allotted to the division is not sufficient or received late to the office, and the farmers

take revenge on the wild animals by poisoning or killing. This is a big threat in the days to

come and has to be tackled with priority. Similar is the case with monkeys and the Kisan

Sanghas often agitate for a suitable solution which has to be solved.


27

5.1.12 Forest fire;

Fire is a serious problem in this PA . fire season is short; starting from February to

April. All fires originate through human agency. Majority of them are meant to scare away

wild animals to facilitate collection of NTFP to get new flush of grass for the cattle or

accidental escapes of sanitary fires around farmlands etc,. tourist and mythical beliefs related

to Kollur Temple also lead to forest fires. Kodachadri is usually set on fire during Shivarathri

upper reachers of Nagankalbare RF are set on fire by illegal fishing groups in Savyahakal

dam backwaters. Cane collectors and honey collectors set fire to the grass lands of Megini

ridges. These fires effect the fringes of sholas.

5.1.13; Insect attacks, pathological problems etc,.;

From the past records it appears that there was no serious threat from insect and fungi.

However, defoliators as well as scaletonizers annually effect teak plantations. Loranthus

(Dendropthe falcate) and other parasites are common on sick and senile trees.

A small but not an insignificant problem is fouling of water near Kollur Township

during March to April months due to the direct discharge of sewage by temple authority,

hotels, lodges and households. At this time of the year flowing Sowparnika is reduced to the

trickle and therefore sewage does not get diluted. Large quantity of seasonal leaf litter also

ads to the woes of the water quality. It is not common to see that water all along the river

bed is unfit for any use. The water was got tested and the result is as follows

As per the Bureau of Indian Standard pure water

Sl

No

Source of sample PH Biological

oxygen

demand

Chemical

oxygen

demand

Total soluble

solids

1 Sowparnika river 7 2.00mg/ltr Nil 20-30 mg/ltr

As per the Laboratory result

Sl

No

Source of sample PH Biological

oxygen

demand

Chemical

oxygen

demand

Total

soluble

solids

1 Sowparnika river 7.42 18.00mg/ltr 132 mg/ltr 43.50 mg/ltr

It is seen from the above facts that the values of elements found in the water sample of

Sowparnika river is above the permissible limits and not fit for drinking. This has been

brought to the kind notice of the District Administration and necessary action has been

initiated by the authorities regarding the same


28

5.1.14 ; Staff for forest protection;

In order to protect the sanctuary from encroachments, illicit fellings, poaching, fire

and smuggling, existing range staff are engaged in regular patrolling for forest areas. The

sanctioned staff strength is 4 foresters, and 10 Forest Guards and 03 Forest watchers.

Generally twenty percent of frontline posts remain vacant. List of required executive staff is

furnished in Annexure -XIII

In addition to the staff, two antipoaching camps where established in strategic

locations at Mudur and Ganganadu. Protecting staff are provided with DBBL guns and one

rifle and slide action gun is provided to RFO.

5.1.15 ;Man and Animal conflict ;

This is a great problem in the coming years and the animals like Bison, Deer, Peacock

enter the paddy fields and damage the crops of the farmers. In some cases they kill the

human beings or in turn the wild animals are killed by villagers due to fear. Suitable

compensation is paid to the villagers for crop damage or human kill. But the amount is

meager compared to the loss caused.

Compensation paid for last 5 years for crop damage within the Sanctuary limits.

S.No. Year Amount

1 2005-06 81250.00

2 2006-07 35650.00

3 2007-08 199850.00

4 2008-09 26650.00

5 2009-10 121630.00


0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

Encroachment

Poaching cases

Ganja cases

Illigal NTFP

Illicit felling

29

Table -7- List of offence cases booked after 2002-03.

Sl.

no. Year

Illicit

felling cases

Illegal

NTFP cases

Ganja

cases

Poaching

cases

Encroachm

ent cases Total

1 2003-04 25 07 - 01 - 33

2 2004-05 20 13 - 02 - 45

3 2005-06 07 05 - 01 13

4 2006-07 11 06 - - - 17

5 2007-08 07 - - - - 07

6 2008-09 08 03 - 01 - 12

7 2009-10 14 03 - 01 - 18

Geographical diagram of forest offences

The graph shows that during the years 2003-04 & 2004-05 the offences were more

and gradually has decreased during the coming years. This is being brought to control.

However, the area is naxal affected and the staff operate cautiously against the offenders and

bring them into books.


30

6.1.1 – Objectives of management;

To protect the sanctuary and to conserve it’s floral and faunal diversity by creating

conditions under which wildlife population may reach optimum population level.

Develop water resource through improving the ground water recharge by desilting

the existing water holes, constructions of check dams.

To create awareness and to inculcate in the minds of children, love for all forms of

wildlife and the need for conservation of natural resource.

Involve tribal and local villagers in protection, wildlife conservation promote eco-

friendly practices of meeting ecological awareness among people through EDCs.

Employment generation for the most needy sections of society through self

employment.

To provide for capacity building to the staff for efficient management of the park

regular training, infrastructure development and close monitoring.

To promote and encourage wildlife research and ecological studies consistent with

the long- term management objectives.

To monitor the population of the wild animals according to carrying capacity.

6.1.2- Impediments in achieving objectives;

a) Presence of settlements in the PA

b) High level of human interference in the sanctuary.

c) Heavy livestock grazing.

d) Lack of qualified guides

e) Inadequate staffing and funding.

f) Heavy inflow of tourists visiting the Kollur temple.


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6.1 .3 – Conservation values in Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary;

a. The sanctuary works as a protective vault to the otherwise dry and parched

plains that stretch from the foothills to the seacoast. Sowparnika river which

is the lifeline of this area is fed by the streams from the sanctuary. Continued

existence of dense natural forests of the sanctuary is crucial for maintaining

the bio-diversity, food security and regional ecology.

b. The sanctuary harbours the rare Black Panther among its large variety.

c. The sanctuary represents the northern limit of lion tailed macaque which is

an endangered species.

d. The sanctuary is rich in the population of Saraca Asoka, which is a red listed

plant. Fairly good localized populations of this dwarf tree are found along

the boundary stream banks through out the sanctuary.

e. Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary is the preferred habitat of at least seven

species of canes endemic to Western Ghats. They grow in abundance and

great luxuriance especially on the steep slopes of Madibare and Megini

Reserve Forests. The density of cane under growth, distinguishes the

sanctuary from the surrounding forests. It is a rich genetic pool of canes.

f. Kodachadri hill has a historical and religious importance as it is believed to

be one of the places were great Shankaracharya performed his penance and

installed the deity ‘Mookambika’, ‘Sarvagna peeta’ on the top of the

Kodachadri hills. This is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year.

g. A variety of medicinal plants are found in this sanctuary which are

endangered and needs protection.

6.1.4 – Plan period ;

The management plan is prepared for a period of five years commencing from

January 2011 to December 2015 revision work should commence from 2013-14 itself. If new

areas are added so as to substantially shape the size of the sanctuary, revision should be taken

up immediately thereafter.


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7.1.1 – General;

Strategies which have long term on the improvement on the sanctuary will be taken

up in addition to a set of programmes that are required for the usual upkeep and maintenance

of the sanctuary. The strategies proposed to be followed are as under;

a. Recognizing the sanctuary area to cover the maximum biodiversity and to protect its ecological integrity.

b. Effective zonation of the sanctuary and zone wise prescriptions.

c. Reducing the anthropogenic pressure from within by offering attractive rehabilitation package especially forests the people residing in the core zone

d. Addressing the problems of inhabitants in the fringes through a properly designed eco- development programme.

e. Educating the visitors visiting the temple through proper education and developing interest in nature.

The strategies are as under;

7.1.2 – Strategy. 1. Reorganization of the sanctuary areas;

Mookambika sanctuary is highly fragmented on the southern side. Ribbons of forest

travelers through the hill ridges over long distance while the adjoining valleys are completely

occupied and densely inhabited by human beings and cattle. More than 65 % of the

geographical area in Chittur, Keradi, Jadkal and Mudur limits are agricultural lands. The

remaining 35 %, which now constitute the sanctuary have to meet all the agricultural

requirements of this population. Virtually, there is not a single acre of sanctuary area that is

not used by people, especially in summer for collection of leaf mulch, when the wild animals

have a difficult time for shrub cover. Water becomes a serious limitation, as there is hardly

any source on the ridges. During the monsoons, farmlands come under cultivation and the

animals cannot cross over from one ridge to the other. They get critically confined as graziers

block patches of areas.


33

There is also intense competition for fodder from domestic animals. The entire forest in

Mudgalpare, Hermannupare, Noojinane, Chittur, Taluburane, Abbigudde, Jannalane,

Korakoppadahola, Gundaberu and Murkodihola have gone through a phase of clear felling

and only the coppice able species regenerated. Keystone species such as Ficus and most of

the endemic fruit yielding species vanished from the scene. The area also underwent heavy

laterisation. Which complicated and worsened the problems for wild animals. There is hardly

any wildlife in the above mentioned reserve forest of the sanctuary, except those that stray

out from the adjoining Madibare and Nagankalbare RFs.

On the other hand, Hulimurdibare RF situated on the extreme north is nothing but a

ribbon of steep western hill slopes with rocky outcrops. Vegetation is confined only to

sheltered localities. In the ultimate analysis only three reserve forests viz. Korathikalbare,

Megini, and Madibare which from a compact block are the best and ideal habitat for wildlife

There is another group of reserve forest to the South- East comprising the

Nagankalbare RF of the sanctuary, Baregundi RF of Shankaranarayan Range of

Kundapur territorial division which forms a compact block. These areas are hilly and

traversed by large number of streams, which culminate in to Chakra river, Human

population is relatively small and confined mainly to the riverbank. Upstream and hills

have rich vegetation and abundant water sources, Kilandur RF is bound on the east by

Savehaklu dam. Villages falling in the catchments of this dam have already been

evacuated and therefore the wild animals have a greater degree of freedom along the

shores of the dam. Consequently the animal density is relatively high to the west of

Savehaklu, where certain amount of grass lands also exist followed by a thick vegetation

in Nagankalbare and Baregundi RFs.

Kodachadri hill plays a very crucial role in the entire region. It attracts

thousands of visitors every year. East of this hill has again an interesting range of flora

and fauna unlike the western aspects. Wild animals will be found in a state of migration

between the east and west seasonally for a variety of reasons. They hardly get any

protection on the eastern facet and many times get liquidated en-route. It is vital to re-

organise the entire sanctuary area so as to capture the widest range of biodiversity and

afford full protection to the fauna. Therefore it should be taken up at the earliest.


34

The sanctuary should be recognized to include seven reserved forest. Viz,.

Korathikalbare, Meginivalley, Madibare, Nagankalbare and Baregundi of Kundapur taluk and

Kodachadri and Chakra RF of Hosanagar Taluk. The remaining eleven state forests from the

present sanctuary limits should be taken out of the PA. a map of the existing and proposed

areas is furnished in plate -6.

A crucial link in the present as well as proposed arrangement in the western slope

between Nagankalbare and Madibare state forests, which is owned by private persons up to

the inter- district boundary. This area has evergreen forests on very steep slopes and has a

dense mat of cane growth. The special deputy Commissioner, Dakhisnakannada, Mangalore

in his notification no. KRL (2) 41/81-82, dated 30th

may 1981 has already declared 407.36

acres of land in sy. Nos.16-1, 37, 63 and 83 of Mudur village as excess holding and the same

is vested in the state government free from all encumbrances. This is only a portion of the

ghat area. The entire western slope stretching between Gundinahole to Samsehole up to the

foothill is an integral part of the sanctuary and necessary action should be taken to get the

entire area acquired and added to the sanctuary.

The proposed sanctuary boundary will be as under:

North : Starting from the north-western corner of Megini valley RF it runs

along the district boundary up to Nagodi ghat road.

East : Starting from the Nagodi ghat road and the district border it proceeds

along the eastern boundary of Kodachadri RF till it touches Chakra RF

and then it passes along the same boundary to Killandoor RF until it

touches the Haidargarh (Hosangadi) ghat road

South : Starting from the above point, it travels along the high way and then

passes along the southern boundary of Baregundi RF till it touches the

charka river.

West : From the above point it passes along the western boundary of

Baregundi RF till Vatebethlu halls, crosses the rive and then travel

along the western boundary of Naganakalbare RF, then crossing the

private land in Mudur village in Sy.Nos. 16-1, 37, 63 and 83 it touches

the boundary of Madibare RF and along the western boundary of

Korathikalbare RF till it touches the starting point.


35

This recognization should be taken up immediately and completed as early as

possible. With this recognization the sanctuary will have a balanced set of eastern and

western faces that are relatively free from disturbance and capture the largest diversity of

flora and fauna.

7.1.3- Strategy- 2. Zonation;

For effective management of sanctuary, it is proposed to follow the zonation as

prescribed in the previous management plan with slight modifications. Zones formed are core

zone, habitat management zone, tourism zone and buffer zone. A zonation map is furnished

at plate-6. it is not necessary to demarcate these zones on the ground. Separate package of

practices are prescribed for each zone. Brief high lights are given hereunder;

7.1.4- Core zone;

Hill slopes and valleys of Megini RF, major part of Madibare RF and Nagankalbare

RFs ( compartment no. 5 to 12, 14,15,17 & 18) constitute the core zone. Objective of

constituting this zone is to preserve the habitat in its near natural conditions as possible by

providing rigid protection against all forms of biotic interference. Enclosures falling inside

core zone are Megini, Bavadi, goligudde, Mavinkaru, Halliberu, Basriberu and Muthanike.

Sincere attempt must be done to relocate these Enclosures through a separate project during

the plan period.

Strict protection is to be given against illicit fellings, fire, grazing and NTFP

collections. However limited scientific studies and habitat development programmes like

development of salt licks, control burning of grasslands, maintenance of patrolling tracks etc,

may be taken up.

7.1.5- Habitat improvement zone;

Objective of forming this zone is to improve the habitat for the benefit of wild

animals. It covers compartment nos. 1 to 4, 13, 16, 19 to 30. forestry operations to facilitate

natural regeneration to restore the forests to normal conditions in the forest areas will be

carried out in this zone. Efforts should be made to create artificial grasslands and maintain

them on the abandoned cultivation so as to provide forests pastures, which is a critical

requirement for the herbivore fauna.


36

Forest areas of this zone comprise mainly of moist deciduous forests and a part of

semi- evergreen forest. These forests are degraded due to over use in the past, biotic pressure

and rising of monoculture plantations. The zone includes the following reserve forests;

Chittur RF, Harmannupare RF, Madibare RF (part), Mudgalpare RF, Murkodihola

RF, Gundaberu RF, Noojinane RF, Jannalane RF, Korathikalbare RF, Abbigudde RF,

Hulimurdibare RF, Korakoppadahola RF. The details of works to be carried out in this zone

are discussed in the next chapter.

7.1-6 Eco Sensitive zone;

All the villages falling within a radius

of 5 km out side the PA are included in this

zone and are to be declared as ecosensitive

areas a per Environmental (protection) Act,

1986 – section 5 read with rules 5 and 13.

The villages falling under this zone are;

Kollur, Chittur, Aloor, Vandse, Idurkunjadi,

Keradi, Kamalashile, Bellala, Ajri, Harkur,

Noojadi, Golihole, Jadkal, Mudur, Hallihole,

Yelajith, Yedthare, Byndoor and Hosur.

These villages are out side the PA boundary

but have a great bearing on the sanctuary. A

well- structured eco- development

programme is necessary to address the issues

in this zone. However any mining or industrial activity is banned in these areas. The detailed

plan is prepared and submitted to the GOI for approval. The map of Eco sensitive zone is

given in plate No. 7

7.1.7- Tourism Zone;

Tourism zone is an overlapping zone around the Kollur township and compartment no

13 to 16 of Madibare RF. This zone is created for educational and tourism purpose. A patrol

track is already created within this zone around Kochalamakki in addition to some picnic and

camping facilities at Anejari. This zone is to be utilized for nature education purpose to the

public & school children.


37

7.1.8; Strategy;3. RELOCATION AND REHABILITATION PACKAGE FOR

SANCTUARY HABITATIONS.;

There are 17 revenue enclosures ranging from a single tenement to 40 households

located deep inside the sanctuary in the core zone as well as the habitat management zone.

The zone of influence of these enclosures is disproportionately large and in some places they

meet each other so as to make the habitat practically unavailable to the wild animals. At the

same time these inhabitants are also denied of social development as the cost of creating

infrastructure is very high and is generally differed in favour of non- forest habitations. So

the residents of these enclosures have not seen development for decades. Some people

migrate out living behind their properties and some people try to dispose their properties un

successfully in pursuit of resettlement. But this has not been easy. So resident life inside the

PA becomes miserable particularly in the face of wildlife depredations. Equally the existence

of such Enclosures is incompatible with the depredations & naxal menace. So in the interest

of the sanctuary as well as the people. All the forest enclosures should be acquired and added

to the sanctuary.

However since sanctuaries are at a lower order of preference in this regard compared to

the national parks, it may not be possible to attempt this completely within the plan period. It

is therefore proposed that, leaving apart three major enclosures, namely Mavinkaru, Halliberu

and Basriberu which have more than 25 families, rest of the enclosures have to be under a

properly designed rehabilitation scheme. In all 118 families occupying 133.18 ha. of patta

lands are to be shifted out. Lands so acquired should be maintained as permanent meadows.

7.1.9– Strategy- 4. Eco- development of fringe villages;

In the long run it is imperative to provide certain facilities to the fringe villages so as

to bring a harmony between them and the sanctuary. Eco- development programmes address

this issue; it is to be carried without the following objectives in mind;

a) To seek co-operation to the department from the local villagers in managing the

sanctuary.

b) To improve the habitat and upgrade the protection of the sanctuary.

c) To relieve the intense biotic pressure on the sanctuary.

d) To involve the people in the management of natural resources.

e) To improve the economic conditions of the people in and around the sanctuary.

Real issue is to ‘reduce the fringe villagers’ dependence on sanctuary around forest

biomass and resolve resource conflicts. Long term objective is to diversify the people

from primary sector.


38

7.1.10– Implementation of Traditional Forest Dwellers Act 2006;

This act is to recognize and vest the forest rights in forest land for the Forest

dwelling Schedule tribes and other traditional forest dwellers who have been residing in

such forests for generations.

The recognition of forest rights shall be subject to the condition that such Schedule

tribes or tribal committees or other forest dwellers had occupied the forestland before 13th

day of December 2005.

The concerned Gram Sabha shall be the authority to initiate the process of

determining the forest rights and pass resolution to that effect and forward the same to the

Sub Divisional level Committee and then for final approval of the District level

committee headed by the Deputy Commissioner of the District. The District ITDP officer

is the Nodal Officer for the implementation of the Act. The final rights certificate will be

issued as per the format given in the Act signed jointly by the District Tribal Welfare

Officer, The Deputy Conservator of Forests and the Deputy Commissioner of the District.

During the year 2010-11 the following ST dwellers are given their forest rights in Kollur

Range after approval by the District Committee. They are as follows:-

S.No. Name of the Rights holers Area

(extent in Ha)

1. Sri. Sheena Naik, S/o Govinda Naik, Hallihole village 0.90

2 Sri. Chandra Naik, S/o Babi Naik, Hallihole village 2.00

3 Sri. Puttaiah Naik, S/o Akku Naik, Beerige, Hallihole village 1.20

4 Smt. Saku Nayaki, W/o Narayana Naik, Beerige, Hallihole village 1.20

5 Sri. Rathnakara Naik, S/o Babi Naik, Beerige, Hallihole 1.00

6 Smt. Shantha Nyakthi, W/o Chikkayya Naik, Beerige, Hallihole 1.70

7 Sri. Venku Naik, S/o Rama Naik, Arekallu house, Hallihole 2.10

8

Smt. Siddu yane, Parvathi Naik, D/o Govinda Naik, Kotuguli,

Hallihole

0.60

9 Sri. Govinda Naik, S/o Naga Naik, Kodladikattu, Hallihole 1.00

10 Smt. Sudheela, W/o Narayana Naik, Vadri, Hallihole 0.50

11. Smt Ratna Naik W/o Babu Naik Birige Hallihole 1.92


39

8.1.1 – Habitat management;

Habitat management is very important for the survival of wildlife

This will be based on the following consideration;

a. Giving full protection to natural forests.

b. Converting the exotic monoculture plantations in to native species polycultures.

c. Improving the habitat quality of PA through water holes, salt licks, soil and

moisture conservations works etc,.

8.1.2 ; Habitat improvement;

Moist deciduous forests of the former Kundapur Division were subjected in the past to

heavy exploitation of timber and NTFP. So no fresh extractions are proposed under this plan

even on fire lines/ D lines or in habitat improvement zone. Dead standing or fallen trees

provide shelter to micro organism, birds, beetles, ants, etc,. and are an important requirement

for the life cycle of the many wildlife forms. So even dead trees are not to be harvested.

Whenever open meadows are found in the valleys, they should be so maintained by

removing weeds and shrubs. Ponds and salt licks may be provided around these areas. If the

ground permits, marshes may also be developed on these sites. Grazing grounds are rarely

found in the sanctuary except on the hill ridges. Developing meadows on the abandoned

farmlands and village sites will make up forests a critical disadvantage of the habitat.

8.1.3- Management of monoculture plantations;

An area of 2079.73 ha. of plantation area is under various types of plantations. Older

teak and softwood plantations are overtaken by natural regeneration of local species. It affords

a better habitat to the wildlife. Such natural growth and the plantations needed total protection

during the management plan period. So no separate thinning or cultural operations are

proposed to teak plantations.

Fuel wood plantation in the sanctuary spread over 282.65 ha. are no doubt fit for

extractions. In view of their proximity to the habitations. Converting them in to polycultures

requires closing the area and intensive protection for a period of 5 years. This will be a very

costly operation. However, attempts have to be made to create a reserve crop of native species

under these plantations


40

After all exotics have limited life span and will soon be found drying up or getting

uprooted. These plantations should be inter planted repeatedly with wildlings of kuntal, haiga

etc, on raised mounds closely. Alternatively variety of fruit yielding species may be sown on

the ridges raised by line digging. This practice is to be repeated till a rootstock of 2000

seedlings per ha. is built up. Thereafter the exotics may be considered for removal.

Cashew plantations are raised in Gundaberu RF and Jannalane RF are under the

control of the Karnataka Cashew Development Corporation. They may be managed as per

their plan without disturbing the natural growth or wild animals. They are not to be

reboised. Once the cashew perishes, the area should be restored to the sanctuary with its

natural growth.

8.1.4-Water resource management:

Water management involves locating areas without surface water and augmenting

the same. There are a number of seasonal and perennial water holes in the sanctuary but

they get silted up. They have to be maintained by desilting, raising bunds, providing well-

designed spillways etc,. a good number of small ponds are required in the higher

elevations, especially near the periphery, which are visited by domestic cattle.

Water shortages are very acute in Nagankalbare and Mudgalpare RF. They should

be desilted in every two to three years. Kansikere, Sulamundakere and Chiksal Mortu,

Kochalamakki and upstream of Bommanahalla near Kabbinale pond, Nagodikere, Hulibai

kere, Dali kere, Halliberu kere, Thoodalli kere, Ambikana kere, Sori kere,

Devaragaddekere, Kyarthur kere, should be taken up on priority. And new formation of

ponds in Bavadi, Halliberu of Meginivalley RF. Nuksalu near Madibare RF, Chakathkal &

Kosalli near Hulimurdibare RF is very necessary.

8.1.5- Maintenance of salt licks;-

About 150 salt licks are provided in the sanctuary mostly in the vicinity of water

holes, riverbeds and other watercourses in the tourism zone. It is observed that wild

animals visit most of the salt licks during the summer. Natural salt licks are scarce in the

sanctuary. Hence, maintenance of existing salt licks is necessary. More should be added if

felt necessary.


41

8.1.6- Soil and moisture conservation works;

Due to steep slopes and heavy rains, soil

erosion rates are relatively high. This in turn

adversely affects water regime and the natural

regeneration. In order to conserve soil and water,

gully checks, water conservation trenches, contour

bunding have to be constructed in higher reaches.

A few check dams and water tanks are also

necessary to improve the water availability to the

wild animals. Existing water tanks need to be desilted once in two years.

8.1.7- Protection;

Protection is an important aspect and is the need of the hour. Two Anti poaching

camps are established within the sanctuary and keep on moving around. This sanctuary

being Naxal affected permanent shed construction is not possible as they are damaged in

some areas and difficult to counter them with the available force. However the staffs do

continuous patrolling and immediately attend the offences on getting the information and

legal action is taken wherever it is necessary. The staff strength is also inadequate and

20% of the lower staff is vacant. The funds allotted during the previous years are not

sufficient to take more measures during the fire season and engage more daily watchers.

The Eco-development committees have decreased interest as no new activities are taken

due to lack of funds and hence seeking people’s cooperation is also very poor. These

activities should be strengthened. Some of the naxalite incidents occurred in Kollur

Wildlife Range is detailed as below:-

Date Naxalite incidents occurred

23-06-2005 2 suspected naxalites shot by Anti Naxal Squad police encounter in

Devarabalu near Hallihole of Kundapur Taluk.

18-12-2005 A group of naxalites visited Halliberu Antipoaching camp of Kollur

Range and threatened forest watcher and told them not to do the forest

works

07-12-2008 Naxalites Killed Sri.Kesava Yadiyala of Yadageri in Hallihole Village,

Kundapur Taluk suspecting him as a Police informer.


42

8.1.8 – Boundary demarcation and maintenance;

The sanctuary has an outer perimeter of about 350 kms and has an enclosure

boundary length of 90 kms. Three types of works, namely, re-cleaning of outer

boundaries, construction of new cairns & reconstruction of damaged cairns and

maintaining the boundaries of enclosures are to be carried out as a part of programme of

field works. The boundaries are very indistinct and have been subjected to much

manipulation within the village limits of Mudur, Jadkal and Hallihole. There are large

numbers of undetected encroachments in these areas. Demarcation work of the sanctuary

boundaries using engraved stone/ RCC pillars shall be taken up as a separate programme

to bring about awareness of the sanctuary limits wherever necessary.

8.1.9- Control of poaching and illicit removal of NTFP;

The sanctuary is already having a

reasonable set up for control of poaching

and illicit removal of forest produces. It

needs to be supplemented with more

manpower and equipment to make more

effective.

Extensive patrolling on foot and by

vehicle is very important. For effective

control of poaching and illicit removal of NTFP, the existing anti poaching establishments

should be strengthened. Staff should go in relay team patrols instead of the present

individualized patrolling. Permanent anti poaching camp sheds are to be built at different

locations to meet the different seasonal requirements. But this is not possible in the last

few years due to Antinaxal activities in the region. Necessary equipment like solar power,

binoculars, arms, torchlight, first aid kits etc,. should be provided to the frontline staff.

Practice of providing free rations to the antipoaching staff should be continued.

8.1.10- Patrolling tracks;

In order to patrol the length and breadth of the sanctuary and reach the interior

easily, jeepable patrol tracks were already formed in Megini, Bavadi, Jadkal, Mudur, and

Kollur areas. They need to be upgraded by providing side drains, stone pitching on the

steep gradients, causeway, culverts, and bridges to make them all weather tracks.


43

8.1.11- Firearms and ammunition;

It is necessary to provide arms and ammunitions to executive staff. Already the

Range Forest Officer and Foresters are equipped with weapons. Training in

maintenance and handling of weapons is necessary to all the staff.

Weapon details

S.No Particulars Number

01. Slide Action Gun R.721149

02. Rifle 92AB,2617,315/1375

03. D.B.B.L SV-9605136

04. D.B.B.L SV-9200830

05. D.B.B.L SV-9605141

06. D.B.B.L SV-8302020

8.1.12- Fire control;

Since the area that goes under fire is very small and remote. The costs involved in

fire control are very high. Fire control is not very practical in the terrain. This is

cheaper and desirable considering the shortage of grasslands in the sanctuary. So

control burning should be taken up during December under the supervision of section

foresters.

Fire tracing may be done only along the highways and around enclosures.

Educating the villages living in and around the sanctuary regarding ill affects of forest

fire is important. So signboards should be established at all important places. Co-

operation of the EDCs is required and all the members should be educated and taken

on educational tour to the other sanctuaries and National Parks and some successful

EDCs both within and outside the state to have discussion with the other members

because seeing is believing. Fire crisis management Plan was prepared and submitted

to the MOEF during the year 2010 to control fire and the same is given in

Annexure – XVI and XVI(A)

8.1.13 - Providing basic infrastructure to staff and maintenance;

The quarters and other building should be maintained in good condition. Wherever

there is a shortage, new quarters should be built.

The watchtowers and metallic entry barriers should also be got painted every year.

The publicity boards should be renewed periodically with attractive slogans and

paintings. This will educate the public and pilgrims visiting the Kollur temple and


44

help in the protection of wildlife and forest. Solar lights may be provided to the

frontline staff quarters wherever electricity is not available. Group medical insurance

to be made to the frontline staff and their families to avail the better medical facilities

incase of sickness to self and to their families. Provision for traveling allowance to be

made to the staff as they do not get sufficient TA for their works. Special allowance

for naxal affected areas to be provided on par with the anti naxal force of the State

Police Department which they are deprived at present.

8.1.14 – Regulation of traffic:

Because of traffic round the clock, the highway has fragmented the

sanctuary into two halves preventing the free movement of wild animals. There are

possibilities of speeding vehicles running over the wild animals on the high way

passing through the sanctuary. Hence it is necessary to regulate the traffic between

9.00PM and 6.00 AM. Speed breakers and signages may be put up within the

sanctuary to regulate the traffic on the highway. The tourists should be educated about

ill effects of traffic and sound pollution and seek their cooperation.

Lion tailed macaque


45

9.1.1- Introduction;

It is recognized that unless people from different walks of life see and experience

for themselves the serenity and beauty of the natural environment, the sheer richness,

complexity and delicate balance that exists within the biological world and the nature,

they are unlikely to appreciate the true value of biodiversity conservation and in turn

the required public support may be found wanting.

9.1.2 – Eco- tourism;

Eco- tourism is unique in several ways in Mookambika Wildlife sanctuary. There

are many attractive landscapes, replete with thick glades of forests, clear and silent

streams and their wilderness attract a lot of visitors and religious places. The picture

perfect landscapes and their wilderness attract a lot of visitors mainly as trekkers. The

tourist spots are rather dispersed and therefore as of now the pressure is not felt. Eco-

tourism is markedly different from other kinds of tourism and requires a sensitive and

cautious approach including meticulous planning. So lot of planning is necessary to

enhance the physical carrying capacity and also ensure that visitors experience the

wilderness.

By definition ecotourism is a responsible travel in areas that helps

conserve the environment and sustains the well being of local people. It has five basic

elements, namely,

o Responsibility, concern and commitment to conservation.

o Community participation and benefit sharing

o Respect for local culture, traditions and laws of the land.

o Visitors satisfactions and

o Generation of local employment, self employment etc.

Planting and creation of infrastructure facilities should be taken in to account.


46

9.1.3- Tourists facilities;

November to April is the best time to visit the sanctuary. Nature camp at Anejari

located on the Sowparnika River is adequate to accommodate the eco- tourists. Very

few visitors visit the sanctuary due to poor publicity. Facilities like vehicles to take the

tourist inside of sanctuary and watch towers are not available and the patrolling tracks

in the tourism zone need to be improved and strengthened. Sanctuary lacks well-

trained guides to lead the tourists. To begin with existing watchers may be trained as

guides. If more are required, a separate set of trained guides may be raised from among

the youth. The following specific actions should be taken in this regard.

a. Tourists may be allowed to use hired jeep with a trained guide on Kochalamakki-

Jadkal patrol track. View lines on either side of the patrol tracks should be

cleared. A few ponds and salt licks should be laid to enhance the sighting of

animals along the patrol track.

b. The water level in Sowparnika River near Anejari should be raised by about 3-4

feet using sand bag anicut. A small swimming pool at the back end of stored

water may be developed. The river stretch near Anejari may be used for river

rafting purpose.

c. The tourists may be allowed to trek the Kodachadri Peak and Arshinagundi

waterfalls. These can be maintained through the EDC’s on sharing basis.

Kollur Mookambika Temple

There is an ancient temple of Goddess Mookambika right in the heart of the

sanctuary. This temple is about 1200 years old.

The main statue in the temple is the Lord Shiva Linga called the

Jyothirlingam. This Jyotirlingam in front of the image of the Goddess

Mookambika is of great antiquity.

The great hindu religious leader Sri Adi Shankara was associated with this

temple and is said to have spontaneously composed the classic work Soundarya

Lahiri here. Sri Adi Sankara is said to have installed the metal image of the

Goddess behind the Jyotirlingam. The idol that was installed by Adi Shankara is

confined in a copper roofed and gold crested temples.


47

This well-known temple is visited by pilgrims from all over India and

overseas.

At the foot of the Western Ghats is situated on the banks of the never

drying river Sauparnika. It is a belief that an eagle (Garuda) called Suparna

performed penance on the banks of the river and attained salvation hence the

name Sauparnika. It is a pleasant experience to take a dip in the holy river and

then head for the darshan of the goddess.

Kollur is one of the seven pilgrimages which were created by

Parashurama. While the other pilgrimages created by Parashurama are devoted to

Lord Shiva, Lord Subramanya and Lord Ganesha, this is the only one devoted to

Goddess Parvathi.

There are couple of places worth visiting in the neighboring of the temple.

One of them is Arasina Makki, a famous waterfall. The Kodachadri range is a

beautiful place and attracts a large number of mountaineers and trekkers.

Kollur is regarded as one of the Seven Muktistala pilgrimage sites in

Karnataka.

Mookambika Temple Kollur


48

9.1.4- Patrolling tracks;

Patrolling tracks are very much need for the movement of tourists and protection

staff. The following patrol tracks shall be open to tourists;

List of patrolling tracks to be maintained regularly are:-

Name of the track Length (in Kms)

From To

Bavadi Mukthihalla 10 kms

Kochakmakki Jadkal 6 kms

Thoodalli Kosalli road 5 kms

Melbavadi Megini 6 kms

Dali – Arashinagundi – Mudur 29 kms.

The target groups are students, youth and teachers, private vehicles may be

franchised to take tourists on these routes on fixed charges. A trained guide/ departmental

staff should accompany such vehicles.

9.1.5- Trekking path;

There is also a need for developing certain trekking paths from the fringe to the

nearest hill peak or to a specific landscape element.

List of trekking paths to be maintained regularly are:-

Name of the path Length (in kms)

From To

Mudur Belkal 3 kms.

Melbavadi Thirthabare 4 kms

Kosalli Kosallifalls 4 kms

Megini Attigudde 8 kms

Anejari surrounding 10 kms

Fresh paths can be included in this list based on the requirement of the tourists/ trekkers.

These trekking paths should be well laid out, provided with good signage’s and

manned by trained local youth who will also act as guides. Separate skill development

training should be held for the local youth for this purpose.


49

Trails:-

There are four trails around the Anejari Nature Camp. They are :

1. Arasinagundi Trails 3. Birders Trails

2. Butterfly Trails 4. Nature Trails

These trails give knowledge on different aspects and develop the love for nature

and wildlife sanctuaries in particular plant or insect. It is a good educative round even for

senior citizens who are interested to enjoy nature.

Anejari Nature Camp

The nature camp is called as Anejari

Nature Camp. Nature trails have been formed

so that the visitors can walk through the trails

and study the different species of plants and

insects/reptiles etc. A watchtower is

constructed at suitable place to view the Wild

animals coming near the water hole for

drinking water just near the Nature Camp.

Tented accommodation dormitory and a guesthouse are provided to the visitors to feel the

nature’s gift inside the forest with a natural stream of Sowparnika river flowing alongside.

A paragola also exists for the visitors to have discussions and exchange of views with the

resource persons. An interpretation centre is necessary to exhibit the important

information about various flora and fauna of the sanctuary. Adventure games and activities

are also introduced in the camp for the school going children.

A package for school children is implemented from the year 2010-11, so that the

children will be made to camp and trek inside the forests, study medicinal plants and

wildlife its importance and should develop the interest of preserving and conserving

wildlife. Talks on various topics like plants, wild

animals, plastic waste, environmental hazards,

global warming, biodiversity etc will be held by

resource persons from within the department and

outside. This should be a continuous process. The

nature camp should be maintained neat and clean by

painting the permanent structures annually and

employing sufficient daily watchers.


50

9.1.6- Eco- tourism guidelines;

Activities permitted are trekking, bird watching, photography, swimming in the

notified places, and wildlife viewing without disturbing them.

Group activities should be encouraged.

Guides should be selected, trained and made available to the visitors on cost.

The tourists should be given a through briefing of dos and don’ts. The do’s and

don’t are listed in Annexure- XV. A guidebook should also be produced and sold

to the visitors.

Tourists should maintain silence and dress should camouflage with the natural

surroundings.

No plastics or waste to be used inside the camp or sanctuary.

Arrangement shall be made to issue tickets at the entrance of the nature camps and a

few important visitors spots. Hence a reception centre already exists to serve the purpose

Reservation of accommodation should be computerized at the division office. Email

access should be created for the visitors. A website should also be launched and managed.

Free film shows and slide talks should be arranged to the visitors at the interpretation

centre. Special camps on trekking, bird watching, Identification of botanical trees shrubs

& medicinal plants may be arranged seasonally. These trials have to be maintained

regularly.

9.1.7- Monitoring Eco- tourism;

Impact of the tourism should be monitored closely by observing the sighting

chances of wild animals, visible impacts of litter, wear out of the trekking paths,

degradation of the vegetation, frequent encounter of each other by tourists etc,. to

determine the carrying capacity and accordingly the tourist number should be controlled.

A feedback should be obtained from every visitor and follow up action should be

taken consistent with the management objectives.


2005-06 Rs.103640.00

2005-06

2006-07

2007-08

2008-09

2009-10

2006-07 Rs.188535.00

2007-08 Rs.109920.00

2008-09 Rs.74570.00

2009-10 Rs.96970.00

51

Table – 8- Revenue realized from Eco tourism during the last five years.

S.No. Year Revenue realized (in Rs.)

1 2005-06 103640

2 2006-07 188535

3 2007-08 109920

4 2008-09 74570

5 2009-10 96970

The fall during the last two years is due to the closure of the camp during some

months of fire season and due to renovation activities. However, it is sure to gain

momentum with increased flow of tourists in the coming years.


52

10.1.1- General;

There cannot be any development and protection of the sanctuary without the active co-

operation and support of the local population. Many people do not have basic facilities like

safe potable water, health services, education, and electricity. etc. as most of these villagers are

agrarians the dependence on forests is multifold. They depend on the forests for their daily

need of fuel, small timber, fodder and green manure in order to make their living.

Information on Eco- Development Committees, existing in Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary.

Sl

no. Name EDC

Formation

in the year Plantation works Entry point programme

01.

Sri Jattigeshwara

Eco- Development

Committee,

Mavinkaru.(Kollur

Village.)

2003-04

2004-05

Aided Natural Regeneration = 05 Ha.

Mixed plantation = 25 Ha.

Bamboo plantation = 20 Ha.

Artificial Plantation = 20 Ha.

Formation of foot bridge to

Mavinkaru Area

EDC amount Rs. 2,80,000

2008-09



Formation of Samudhay

Bhavan Building to EDC, near

Jattigeshwar temple,

Mavinkaru.


2009-10

Purchase of Vessels 71 no.

Dining steel table 04 no.

Neel kamal chairs. 77 no.

EDC amount Rs. 90,650

02.

Mudgal Eco

Development

Committee,

Manmanhara –

Doddahara.

(Hosur Village.)

2004-05

2005-06


Silvi pasture Plantation = 05 Ha.

Artificial Plantation = 25 Ha.

Formation of one Samudhay

Bhavan building in EDC Area


(02 Samudhay Bhavan

building sanctioned)

03.

Megini Eco

Development

Committee,

Halliberu

(Kollur Village.)

2004-05

2005-06

Cane plantation = 15 Ha.


Mixed Plantation = 25 Ha.

Artificial Regeneration = 10 Ha.

Formation of eleven no. open

well to the 15 EDC areas

members.


04.

Areshirur Eco

Development

Committee,

Areshirur

(Golihole Village.)

2005-06

2006-07



Formation of mud road

from Areshirur to Kodakeri



53

05.

Sri

Mahalingeshwara

Eco Development

Committee,

Ganganadu

(Yadthare Village.)

2005-06

2006-07



Silvi pasture plantation = 05 Ha.


Formation of two bus stands

near

Onakodlu bus stop, and

Ganganadu Bus stop

EDC amount

(80,000 x 2 nos.) = Rs.

1,60,000

2008-09



Providing Drinking water

supply to Ganganadu EDC

members.

EDC amount Rs. 80,000

2009-10

-

Purchase of Vessels 71 no.

dining steel table 04 no.


EDC amount Rs. 65,441.00

06.

Balkodlu Eco

Development

Committee, Ellur-

Charsal

(Golihole Village.)

2005-06

2006-07




Formation of one Samudhaya

Bhavan building in Ellur area.


07.

Sri Mookambika

Eco Development

Committee, Dali-

Nuksalu- Salageri

(Kollur Village.)

2005-06

2006-07


Silvi pasture plantation = 10 Ha.



Formation of two Samudhaya

Bhavan buildings,

One in Near nuksal

Second one in Dali

EDC amount

(80,000 x 2 nos.) Rs. 1,60,000

2008-09





EDC amount Rs. 1,20,026.00

2009-10



EDC amount Rs. 1,03,130.00

10.1.2-Reducing people’s dependence on sanctuary:: The Following

activities are proposed for people’s dependence on the sanctuary.

a) Energy saving devices: Construction of gobar gas plants on subsidy to reduce the

consumption of Fuel wood especially around Kollur, Aloor, Mudgalpare, Bellala and

Keradi. Improved versions of smokeless chullas used for cooking as well as water

heating purposes can be supplied to the villagers. One time subsidy in the form of

LPG stove should be considered.

b) Promotion of non wood structural materials and furniture: In order to reduce green

tree fellings and traditional dependence on timber. The farmers who are

constructing houses should be encouraged to use wood substitute i.e., improved ferro

cement doors, windows, rafters, furniture etc., through subsidy which should be

given by the department.


54

c) Cattle are the biggest enemy to the sanctuary: Dairy is just picking up. Upgrading

the cattle breed to enhance the milk yield will be an attractive programme to the

people. It will also be beneficial to the sanctuary in the long run. So the people should

be encouraged to exchange malnad giddas to better breeds by providing a matching

grant to the income derived from the sale of malnad giddas.

d) Utilization of Solar lights, Solar stoves, enviro friendly cooking stoves, training them

in self employment activities live weaving, floriculture, vermicompost manure etc

which the locals are very much interested for domestic purpose should be given

importance.

e) In order to seek continuous support from them it is necessary to provide funds under

the central scheme for entry point activities as there is no continuity in the FDA

programme.

10.1.3-Reducing man-animal conflict: The following works are proposed.

a) Immunization to cattle against communicable diseases is to be

undertaken with the help of Animal husbandry department annually.

b) Speedy settlement of compensation claims for crop damages and

loss/damage to cattle and human life. For this purpose, sufficient funds

should be made available with the DCF. Scaring teams and crackers

may be provided to the farmers to scare away crop raiding wild

animals, so that the damage to crops is minimized. Solar fencing and

stone walls to be constructed.

c) Workshops for local community leaders like members of Gram

Panchayath, Taluk Panchayath and Zilla Panchayath and other elected

representatives to be conducted to update the latest rules and

regulation of Forest Department.


55

In order to mitigate the direct dependence of the people on the forests for

economic activities the following socio eco developmental works are proposed.

Training camps on vermin culture, mushroom cultivation,

sericulture, need to be encouraged.

Training in bee keeping and distribution of beehive boxes.

Distribution of grafts of fruit trees to enhance their earning.

Nature camp for the local visitors for exposure about forests and

Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary. Exposure of EDC members to

other successful Wildlife Sanctuary and National Parks within the

state and outside the state so that on seeing other success stories the

department may gain more co-operations from them.

Take note of their experience and suggestions.

Encourage self employment in weaving.

Dali – Samudaya Bhawan under EDC entry point activity


56

11.1.1.-Awareness and Education:

Educating the younger generation and public is very important for long

term sustainability of natural resources. A reciprocal programme of inviting

permitting people to visit, see and learn about nature inside the sanctuary and the

sanctuary authorities going outside the boundaries and promoting conservation

education through a sustain campaign of films, discussions, debates, competitions

etc., should be vigoursly pursued. People are thrilled and excited to see the nature

in its own place and at its best. Therefore, through the process of eco-tourism

people should be permitted to visit the sanctuary and feel the nature.

Publicity regarding sanctuary should be given among religious tourists visiting

Kollur temple, school and college students around the sanctuary. Necessary

posters, handbills, pamphlets, brochures etc should be published in large number

and distributed. The departmental quarters near the temple should be utilized for

housing a small office and a group of guides for the tourists.

Regular programme should be organized at the Anejari Nature Camp with the help

of resourceful personal for the visitors. A properly equipped interpretation center

should be added to the nature camp.

It is necessary to get the co-operation of the villagers living in and around the

sanctuary and the general public. Organizing camps and lectures, exhibition of films and

wildlife photographs, establishing interpretation centers to spread the conservation

message among the people are also necessary.


57

11.1.2-Reserch works carried out:

S.

No. Place Subject Person/Organization

1 Mookambika Wildlife

Sanctuary

Meta population dynamics of

tiger in Malenadu and

Mysore landscape

Dr. Ullas Karanth, Center for

Wildlife Studies, Bangalore


Sanctuary

Clarrifying species status of

different morphotypes of

langurs

Dr.K. Praveen Karanth Assist: Prof:

CES IISc, Bangalore (Chethan Nag

K.S.)


Sanctuary

Survey of Biological

diversity in Kudremukh

Forest Complex

DCF, Kudremukh Wildlife

Division, Karkala (Karthik

Vasudevan, Mevasingh, V.R.Singh)


Sanctuary

Documentary on King Cobra

and King cobra telemetry

Project.

Mr. Romulas Whitaker, ICON

FILMS, Bristol U.K.


Sanctuary

Census on Lion tailed

macaque – 2006

Sri. Vijay Ranjan Singh, IFS, DCF,

& Sri. H.N.Kumara, Ph.D National

Institute of Advance studies,

Bangalore.


Sanctuary

Survey of Hornbills and

endemic birds at

Mookambika Wildlife

Sanctuary

Dr. T.R.Shankar Raman & Dr.

Divya Muddappa, Ecologist, Nature

Conservation Foundation, Mysore.

There is vast scope for research to be done by the Foresters, social scientists,

ecologists and field biologists. From the management perspective, a detailed inventory of

the floral and faunal of species is required. For an exhaustive and scientific survey, a

terrains forest types etc. Research should be taken in these plots on a long-term basis and

the results should be documented plot wise. Some of the topics proposed for research are:-

a) Grassland and fire ecology,

b) Biology of flagship species,

c) Survey of endangered species and their conservation strategies,

d) Social and economic aspects of the communities living inside the sanctuary.

e) Hydrology and water regime of the sanctuary.

Population estimation of Lion tailed macaque was carried out

by Shri V.R Singh IFS and others during 2006 and a brief summary of the findings is

given below.

The western Ghats harbours a remarkable Diversity of plant and animal life because of

which the hills have been recognized as one of eight hotspots of biodiversity in the world

(Myers et al.,2000).


58

The most conspicuous of the arboreal mammals are several species of non-human

primates including the Lion-tailed macaque (Macaca silenus), Nilgiri langur

(Semnopithecus johnii), Bonnet macaque (M.radiate) and the Hanuman langur

(S.entellus/priam) While the Lion-tailed macaque and Nilgiri langur are endemic to the

Western Ghats, the other two species are widespread throughout Southern India.

The Lion –tailed macaque (LTM):

The lion-tailed macaque ranges through three southern Indian states : Karnataka,

Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Because of its highly selective feeding habits, limited range of

occupancy (about 2500 km2), delayed sexual maturity, Long inter-birth intervals, low

population turnover and a small remaining wild population, this species has been classified

as endangered (IUCN, 2003).

The population status of the species, as a whole, however, continues to be elusive

over most of its range. Karanth (1992), while outlining the conservation prospects for the

Western Ghats, Emphasized the importance of the lion-tailed macaque as a flagship

species of the rapidly declining rainforests of this biodiversity hotspot. The findings from

recent surveys on the status of lion-tailed macaques in, Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary

is as follows.

Physical features of the study sites

Protected

Area Lat-Long Range

Area

(km)2)

Rainfal

l

Altitude

range

(m ASL)

Mookambika

WS

13041’24”-

13058’48”N,

74039’58”-

74055’54”E

Kollur 247.00 4000 20-1343

RESULTS

The total number of lion-tailed macaque individuals and groups sighted during the

survey period. 6 group in Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary.

Though groups were found from a minimum altitude of 124m ASL to the maximum

altitude of 1400 m ASL, 83.3% of the sightings were between 300m ASL and 900m ASL.

Sightings and estimation of lion-tailed macaque group in MWS.

Range KM

Walked

No. of

Sightings

Total

animal

sighted

Estimated

groups

Total animals

sighted in

estimated groups

Mookambika 338 11 110 6 73


59

Comparison of present findings with Karanth(1985) on status of lion-tailed

macaques in Mookambika Wild life Sanctuary. Values in the brackets are percentage of

the current estimation compared to the Karanth(1985).

Range Karanth (1985) Current census(2006)

Mookambika 10 94 6(60.00) 73(77.7)

Large contiguous population of the lion-tailed macaque are expected to occur only in

very few regions over the entire Western Ghats and the conservation status of the species

is likely to differ across these sparse Populations.

It is evident from the body of the literature that there are very few know viable

population left in the nature. The Lion-tailed macaque population in Kudremukh NP-

Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary is the only largest viable population among the protected

areas.

We suggest the population assessment in these reserves forest to conclude the existing

population size and they also should be monitored continuously within this protected areas

network.

Recommendations:

1. Annual population monitoring of the lion-tailed macaque both at protected areas

and their adjacent reserves forest are necessary to understand the population

status and viability.

2. Wherever the protected area in the Western Ghats include this species, the lion-

tailed macaque can be considered as a ’flagship species’ to enlist public support

for conservation.

3. Precautionary steps should be taken to prevent poaching and special package

should be chalked out for its Protection & conservation.

4. Steps should do be taken to retain the primary forest with continuous canopy.

11.1.3-Staff training:

Regular training of different cadres of staff in basic wildlife management and other

related disciplines is essential for scientific management of the PA as officers and

permanent staff is regularly transferred out.


60

They require regular training to keep them fit for coordinated action against

poachers and other miscreants. Wildlife management has emerged as a science by now. It

has become increasingly difficult to entrust them with tasks requiring certain level of

communicating with villagers to enlist their participation in protecting PA.

Basic skill development for field staff is of paramount importance. Specialized

training of the staff is essential to tone up their skills from time to time.

It is proposed to conduct regular training programs and workshops in the field as

well as to depute the staff for short-time courses in reputed institutions of the state and the

country. Some of the training proposed is

1) Identification of important medicinal plants and its uses.

2) Wildlife Protection Act 1972 and latest amendments to the frontline staff.

3) Peoples participation in Ecotourism and protection of wildlife to the EDC members.

4) Estimation of Herbivore & Carnivore population.

5) Identification of Birds

6) Legal training to frontline staff.

Training to frontline staff.


61

12.1.1-The plan budget:

Presently Mookambika Sanctuary receives funds from the State Government and

Central Government. However, the funds are not sufficient to meet the works as per the

Management Plan. However the budget should be increased every year by 25%. It is

expected that the Central Government will also fund the PA once this plan is approved

especially for non-recurring items and special components like relocation rehabilitation,

eco-development, etc.

12.1.2-Programme of works :

The program of indicating the year, quantity of work and their financial

implications is furnished at ANNEXURE - XIV . The programme is broadly divided in to

six categories as:

a) Compulsory annual maintenance works

b) Protection works

c) Habitat protection and management

d) Eco development works

e) Eco tourism works

f) Infrastructure development works

This classification aims at prioritizing different items of work in the order of their

importance to the management of the sanctuary. Whenever there is budget constraint, the

annual maintenance works should be accorded priority. Programs like eco-development of

the buffer areas and rehabilitation of inhabitants and critical wildlife habitat require huge

commitment of funds and therefore may not be possible under the routine annual

programmes. They should be packaged separately as independent projects and sourced

appropriately.

Deviations: Any deviations in the Budget plan may be got approved by the Chief

Wildlife Warden as per site specific situations and requirements.


The detailed plan of works for

each beat and sections of the

Sanctuary was obtained from the

concerned beat guards and

foresters and shown in the

respective section maps and these

are furnished in Plates 8 - 11

62

12.1.3- Monitoring of PA :

The PA has a fairly large human and cattle population who use the Sanctuary

regularly. Consequently there is pressure on the density of wild animals. Change in the

population levels is hardly discernible and unless they are monitored at regular intervals.

The effect of protection and management cannot be determined. Therefore, population

estimates should be undertaken inside the sanctuary biannually for major animals, rare

birds, reptiles, and data should be documented. Qualified scientists, wildlife enthusiasts

and volunteers from the local organizations may be associated with these surveys. In

addition the anti poaching camps, staff deployed on regular patrol duties should also

record animal sightings, which will also give a fair estimate of the population trends. A

register should be maintained at the anti poaching camp where daily observations are to be

recorded. Periodic review of the registers should be undertaken. Regular surveillance

should be kept on communicable diseases within the sanctuary and record of their

occurrence should be maintained. A watch on the tourist impact would also be worthwhile.

Kurunji Flower


References;

1. Management Plan 2003-2010 by Sri. K.N.Murthy, IFS, Deputy

Conservator of Forests, Wildlife, Karkala

2. Management Plan prepared by Smt. Anitha S. Arekal, IFS, Deputy


3. Survey of Biological Diversity in Kudremukh Forest Complex,

Karkala by Sri. Vijay Ranjan Singh, IFS, Deputy Conservator of

Forests, Wildlife, Karkala.

4. LTM census report – Sri. Vijay Ranjan Singh, IFS, Deputy


Documents

Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary