Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve
Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve is located in the southeastern part of Rajasthan's Bundi district. It shares borders with Ranthambore Tiger Reserve in the northeast and Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve in the south. The terrain of the reserve is largely hilly and rugged, with the Mez river, a tributary of the Chambal river, flowing through it.
The reserve encompasses both the flat hills of the Vindhyas and the conical hillocks and sharp ridges of the Aravallis, providing a mix of Vindhyan and Aravalli elements. The topography ranges from gradual inclines to rugged rocky cliffs, with the valleys having ample depth of soil and moisture, providing an ideal habitat for mixed forests.
Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve spans a total area of 1501.88 square kilometers, comprising a core area of 481.9 square kilometers and a buffer area of 1019.98 square kilometers. It is situated on the banks of the Maze river, which flows through the Hadoti region, adding to the reserve's mesmerizing beauty and landscapes.Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan holds unique features that make it crucial for tiger conservation efforts:
Connectivity: The reserve serves as a vital corridor connecting Ranthambore and Mukundra Tiger Reserves, facilitating the movement of tigers and enhancing genetic diversity among tiger populations.
Habitat Diversity: With a terrain ranging from gradual inclines to rugged rocky cliffs, the reserve encompasses both the flat hills of the Vindhyas and the conical hillocks and sharp ridges of the Aravallis, providing diverse habitats for wildlife.
Buffer Zone: Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve includes a core area of 481.9 square kilometers, the main habitat of tigers, and a buffer area of 1019.98 square kilometers that surrounds and protects the core area, ensuring a safe environment for tigers to thrive.
Wildlife Diversity: Apart from tigers, the reserve is home to various species like the Indian wolf, leopard, striped hyena, sloth bear, golden jackal, chinkara, antelope, and foxes, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the region.
Conservation Impact: While the tiger population in Ramgarh itself may not be high, the reserve's strategic location and connectivity play a critical role in conserving tigers by providing a safe passage for their movement and dispersal, ultimately contributing to the long-term survival of the species.
These unique features collectively underscore the importance of Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve in tiger conservation efforts, highlighting its significance in preserving India's rich biodiversity and ensuring the survival of the majestic tiger population.