BRUHAT IG — = Nature Olympiad Editor 3 =>. Vrijulal MV=. Education in Nature Science T About Nature Olympiaa é an educational competition that is organised by the Foundation for & Sustainability (FRENSS) with support from Energy & Wetlands (EWRG) & Environmental Information Awareness Capacity Building & Livelihood Programme on Institute of Science (IISc), focusing on promoting awareness and knowledge about the natura CP Jesigned to encourage students to develop a deep understanding of nature and to foster 2 sense of World ky : towards its conservation. “Pn 4 ‘The Nature Olympiad typically consists of a series of multiple-choice questions related to 3 including ecology, biodiversity, conservation, climate change, and environmental issues, Particip pe Tatar, ther scientific knowledge, problem-solving abilities & critical thinking skills in relation to the nat ea © The Nature Olympiad is Participating in the Nature Olympiad offers several benefits to students. It enhances their know, environmental science, strengthens their analytical and problem-solving skills, and cultivates their ability wall critically about complex ecological issues. Moreover, it instills a sense of environmental stewardship and encourages students to become responsible global citizens who care for the planet. In conclusion, the Nature Olympiad plays a crucial role in promoting environmental awareness and education among students. By encouraging active participation and providing a platform to showcase the knowledge and skills, it contributes to creating a generation that is well-informed, engaged, and motivated to protect and preserve our natural world.How to prepare? preparing for the Nature Olympiad using the study materials provided is a great way to excel in the competition. | ° Familiarize yourself with the content: Begin by thoroughly reading and understanding the content provided in this book. Take note of key concepts, facts, and important details related to ecology, biodiversity, conservation, and environmental issues. ¢ Conduct additional research: Supplement the provided content by conducting additional research. Use reputable sources, such as scientific journals, environmental websites, and textbooks, to gain a deeper understanding of specific topics and the species mentioned in this book. You may scan the QR code at the back of this book for some of the additional resources and also watch videos from the ENVIS_IISc_EWRG Environmental Education channel in YouTube. * Collaborate with others: Engage in study groups or discussions with fellow participants to ex knowledge and ideas. Sharing insights can enhance your learning experience and broaden perspective on various ecological aspects. By following these steps, you can enhance your knowledge, boost your confidence, and be well-prepared to excel in the Nature Olympiad. Remember to approach the competition with a positive attitude and a passion for nature and environmental conservation. Good luck!or | . Fr p profile Carnatic Carp State Fruit Mango StateAmphibian | Malabar Tree Toad - Proposed© and nursery grounds for various fish species, supporting the livelihoods of coastal communities + engaged in fishing and related activities.Additio: ally, the stat: Nethravathi te houses h ind a over of rivers and uman consumpti , which . voir, iption. However, the e heat agriculture nd, like the Ki -cological balance i Provide w, oe ieee Be eS ne afeogrs due wing! chan, ns 6 Which verse ecologi such as defo: aT » habit: = for concerted efforts in at loss, pollution, unplanned it Oo! * e sntae fre gentoo and sustainabl development and elim " © practices t. late preserve j its diy Re Ce o Brey nelks cls 5 National Parks racy Frere lelelutl mites 36 wildlife Cea Pea lal Penh reserve -KED. Annual Report 2022-23National Parks, Tiger Reserves & wildlife Sanctuaries Kamataka, a state blessed with diverse landscapes, is home to several National Parks and Wildlife sanctuaries that contribute significantly to the conservation of its rich biodiversity. National Parks of Karnataka Breen Ra CHUL Anshi National Park Bandipur National Park PET MUaC eM E-LaLol ated eel ee Kudremukha National Pa Nagarahole National Px wildlife, including the majestic'Bengal Tiges) Eley These National Parks not only offer a chance to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat but also provide essential corridors for their migration and breeding. These protected areas are havens for a wide Elep! and various spe¢taka boasts numerous Wil ~ Apart from the National Parks, Karnat life ’ Uaries, ns t commitment to preserving these protected areas not sch safeguards its eco-tourisinjigénerating ai Natural hers wildlife Sonservation among victor : and Anshi National Park (Anshi'National Park, located in the Uttara Kannada district, i is a significant as covers an area of around ‘417/SqiKmis) an h ndeli ’ which also elude theajacent Dandl Wid Sata ‘Tiger Reserve! The park's diverse landscape {includes evergred inclu eRe nae x rae? P Sqhe diverse Tange of flora and fauna further highlights the park's ecological significance. aditionally, the park plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the Western Ghats by preserving its delicate ecosystems and providing connectivity between various forested areas and serves as a critical habitat for several endangered and endemic species. Karnataka hosts 4 species of hornbills ‘ p aa. 7 ane \ : ‘=n sl . LY Xe feeraareleta =f Malabar Grey fe] Hornbill Hornbill | (pot Y ¢ } HoBandipur National Park & Tiger Reserve ~The Hs Bandipur‘Tiger Reserve and National Park, spread across Mysuru and Chamarajanagar districts; i one of the €ouinilzy's most renowned and important protected areas. Established im 1973'as ting resexve under Project Tiger, it covers an exparisive aes of around 872 Sq’Kmsiadjoining thesaaaa 6f Tamil Nadu & Kerala’ Situated in the foothills Gf the Western’ Ghats, Bandipur Tiger Ree part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO designated World Heritage Site? Bandipur's diverse landscape hosts scrublands, dry deciduous forests to moist deciduous evergreen forests. This variation in ecosystems supports an incredibly rich biodiversity. The park’famously home to a significant population of Bengal Tigers, but it's also a habitat for other charismatic wildlife likelIndian Elephants, Indian Leopards, Dhole, Striped Hyena, Indian {Gaurs (Indiam bison), Sloth Bears; Golden Jackals) Four:horned’Anitilopes, SambarjMouse; Deer, Chital, Gray Langurs, Indian Gaint Squirrels, Ruddy Mongoose etc, and various species of insects, reptiles, amphibians and over 200 species of birds including the endangered Indian Vulture. Some of the Common flora includes Teak (Tectona grandis)!Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia), Sandalwood \(Santalum album), Indiawlaurel\(Terminalia tomentosa)“Indian ‘kino tree: (Pterocarpus marsupium), Giant clumping bamboo (Dendrocalamus strictus), Clamping bamboo (Bambusasarundinacea), Indian Gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica), Indian’ Sarsaparilla (Hemidesmus indicus), Indian barberry (Berberis aristate) and- Dhaman‘ (Grewia 'tilizefolia) etc:r Bannerghatta National Park EE National Park)inear Bengaluru; was founded in 1971 and declared as a Naticaal Paps, (7p spread across Bangalore and Ramanagara districts covering over 260 Sq Kms: Theparg, cepartoFaiwildlife corridor forelephants which connects the BR Hills and the Sathyamangalanrmss>, In 2002, Siportion of the national park was converted to Bannerghatta Biological Park. This. park ie Situated Very close tothe third most populous city, Bengaluru and;hence functions'ag~ ‘lang "space for the city. The park's landscape variesifrom ‘dry ‘deciduous iforests'to/scrublandg (grasslands, ‘making it home to a diverse range of flora and fauna? ‘Some of the flora of jthesBNPiareAxlewood Tree (Anogeisses Jatifolia), Ceylon Satinwoek ( Chloroxylon swietenia)) White-Bark-Acaciay(Vachellia leucophloea), Black Cutch Tee (Séaggaigy (catechu); Fragrant Padri Tree (Stereospermum chelonoides), Indian Sandalwood (Santalam aIbammpy — 'Walura’:LacTree (Shorea roxburghii), Neem (Azadirachta»indica) 1Cileatta Bamboo n(Dendrocalamus ‘strictus) Lantana’ (Lantana camara), Sietiless Date” Palm (Phoenix-acaalig, } @Stinking Cassia )!\(Senna tora), Tanner's Cassia (Senne: auriculata), Mountain’ Po it 1 Catunaregana spinosa), Indian Red Wing (Pterolobium hexapetalum)etc:Atfew fauna to mention areithe Bérigal Tiger, Indian’ Elephant; Mugger Crocodiles; Indian'Gaur; ssSambary Chital, Barking Deer, Wild Boars, Leopards, Porcupines) Black-naped Harey Spectacled gqGobra, Russell’s Viper, Indian Grey Hornbill;Painted Stork ahd many-‘more. Did you know? ORS tne ere url into a tight ball, resemb Tisteit Ue Coley peas COSCO Thetaukha National ParkIndian Giant Squirrels, and a wide range of bird species. The park's biodiversity is supported by the fact that it falls within one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots - the Western Ghats. The rivers Nethravati, Tunga and Bhadra are believed to. originate here at Ganga Moola. | It's home to a variety of wildlife, including the Indian Bison (Gaur), Indian Elephants, Sambar, One of the single largest contiguous populations of Lion Tailed Macaques (LTM) in India and the entire world can be found in Kudremukha National Park's natural moist evergreen forests. Kannadaj owing to the distinctively ding at an elevation of 1,894 meters ncing conservation with sustainable he restoration’ of 'a\once-degraded park's forests were facing severe wever, conservationists and the n to phase out mining and focus on inspiring example of successfulSome of the flora found here are Nilambur Cobra Lily (Arisaema nilamburense) Indian Milled-Leaf Tree (Poeciloneuron indicum), Brown's Dipterocarpus indicus etc. Jewel Orch 's Humboldtia (Humboldtia Pit nis) Nagarahol across My: Common fauna of the region are Bengal Tiger, Indian Elephant, Indian Bison (Gaur), Wi, Boar Sambar Deer, Spotted Deer, Indian Leopard, Dhole, Golden Jackal, Sloth Bear, Barki 7 Dee, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Indian Giant Flying Squirrel, Lion-tailed Macaque, Eurasian Otter, Nig Marten etc. is a rema Establishe populatior ‘The park’ course of bodies, su Kurubat Nagarah including tinctoria, dogs), M avian resNagarahole National Park & Tiger Reserve ee National Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is a verdant haven spread across lysuru and Kodagu districts. Covering an expanse of approximately 643 Sq Kms, the park is a remarkable blend of diverse ecosystems, from lush forests to picturesque grasslands. Established in 1983, Nagarahole is a haven for wildlife, acclaimed as one of the high-density tiger population areas of the country. The park's name, which translates to "Snake River" in Kannada, is derived from the serpentine course of the Kabini River that flows through its heart. This river, along with several other water bodies, supports a thriving ecosystem and acts as a lifeline for the park's flora, fauna and the Jenu Kuruba tribes of the region. Nagarahole is renowned for its rich wildlife. It's a habitat for a wide range of flora & fauna, including Teak (Tectona grandis), Roseta Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia), Pala Indigo (Wrightia tinctoria), Bengal Tigers, Indian Elephants, Indian Bison (Gaurs), Leopards, Dhole (Indian wild dogs), Mugger crocodile ( Crocodylus palustris) and various species of deer, and over 270 species of avian residents and migratcry visitors.Wildlife & Bird Sanctuaries of Karnataka Mandya = 1_| Adichunchanagiri Peacock Sanctuary 2_| Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary Mysuru 3_| Arasikere Slothbear Sanctuary Hassan 4 _| Attiveri Bird Sanctuary Uttara Kannada 5_| Bankapura Peacock Sanctuary Haveri 6 _| Bankapura Wolf Sanctuary Koppal 7 ife Sanctuary & Tiger Reserve_| Chikkmagaluru & Shimoga 8 _| Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary Belgavi 9 _| Bonal Bird Sanctuary Yadgiri 10 ildlife Sanctuary Kodagu 11 | Chamarajanagar 12 | Bukkapattana Chinkara Wildlife Sanctuary Tumakuru 13 Chamarajanagar, Mandya & Ramanagara | 14 Kalaburagi | Uttara Kannada16_| Daroji Sloth-bear Sanctuary 17__| Ghataprabha Bird Sanctuary 18 _| Gudavi Bird Sanctuary 19 __| Gudekote Slothbear Sanctuary 20 __| Jogimatti Wildlife Sanctuary 21 __| Kaggaladu Bird Sanctuary 22__| Kammasandra Wildlife Sanctuary Kolar 23__| Kappathagudda Wildlife Sanctuary Gadag 24 __| Kokkare Belluru Bird Sanctuary Mandya ‘Bird Gadag 25 __| Magadi Bird Sanctuary 26 Chamarajanagar Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary 27__| Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary Shimoga 28 | Melkote Wildlife Sanctuary Mandya 29 | Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary Udupi 30 | Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary Mysore 31__| Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary Kodagu 32 __| Ranebennur Blackbuck Sanctuary Haveri Belgavi Shimoga Ballari | Chitradurga Tumakuruaay ees Ta 33 _| Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary Mandya 34 _| Rangayyanadurga Wildlife Sanctuary Davanagere ample: The Kotigchra Dancing Fog 35. | Sharavathi Valley Lion-tailed Macaque Sanctuary _| Shimoga few regions across Western Ghats of Kam 36_| Shettihalli Wildlife Sanctuary Shimoga ‘Endangered Species: 37_| Someswara Wildlife Sanctuary Udupi & Shivamogga ‘Definition: Endangered species are those 38_| Sri Ramadevarabetta Vulture Sanctuary Ramanagara ‘measures are not taken. They face threats 39_| Talacauvery Wi Kodagu ‘Example: The Dhole ( Cuon alpinus) is cc 40_| Thimlapura Tumakuru 41_| Uttaregudda Wi Chitradi a itradury a ga Definition: Exotic species, also known a 42 Bagalkot ecosystern but have been introduced, eit Example: The Lantana (Lantana camar ‘become invasive in many areas, outcomy aes Definition: Invasive species are a subse have the ability to spread rapidly and ov Example: The Water Hyacinth (Eichho Karnataka, leading to ecological and en | eee| ra 7 Definition: Endemic species are those that are nat found exch ina | not naturally found anywhere else on Earth. eal —7 |] Example: The Kottigehara Dancing Frog (Micrixalus kottigeharensis) is an endemic species of frog. Ttis fe - few regions across Western Ghats of Karnataka. ay - |] | Endangered Species: |] | Definition: Endangered species are those that are at significant risk of becoming extinct in the near future if. ming c | measures are not taken. They face threats that could lead to their disappearance from the wild. | Example: The Dhole (Cuon alpinus) is considered endangered and faces threats due to habitat loss and poaching. j an | Definition: Exotic species, also known as introduced or non-native species, are species that are not native to a particular ” ecosystern but have been introduced, either intentionally or accidentally, to a new environment. He t || Example: The Lantana (Lantana camara) is an exotic plant species introduced to Karnataka from the Americas. Tt has _ become invasive in many areas, outcompeting native vegetation. 2 TL tovasive Species: ] Definition: Invasive bbset of exotic species that have not only been introduced to a new habitat but also i] | have the ability to outcompete native species. They often have detrimental effects on the ecosystem. | Example: The Water jornia crassipes) is an invasive aquatic plant species that has infested water bodies in | Karnataka, leading to ec environmental problems. ats -Wildlife Sanctuaries - some tightights 1, Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary: It is a sanctuary located in the Mysore district and spread over 13.5 Sq Kms. The sanctuary's main attraction is its resident and migratory bird popula) : making it a paradise for birdwatching and ornithology enthusiasts. It serves as a Vital stopover point for various avian species during their migratory journeys. The sanctuary's terrain consi wetlands, grasslands, and water bodies. These diverse ecosystems provide a suitable habitat fo numerous bird species, both aquatic and terrestrial. The Painted Stork, Asian Open-bill Stork, and Pelicans are among the prominent avian residents that can be observed in the sanctuary. 2. Biligiri Ranganathaswamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary and Tiger Reserve: Established in 1974, this sanctuary covers an area of about 540 Sq Kms and is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, rich biodiversity, and the cultural significance of the Biligiri Ranganathaswamy Temple located within its boundaries. One of the most intriguing aspects of this sanctuary is the coexistence of wildlife and local communities. The Soliga tribe, an indigenous group, inhabits the area and practices traditional methods of sustainable resource use. The sanctuary's management emphasizesthe involvement of these communities in conservation efforts, creating a harmonious balance between human activities and wildlife protection. 3. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary and Tiger Reserve: It is located between the Chikkamagaluru and Shimoga districts. Established in 1951 and later declared a Project Tiger Reserve in 1998, this sanctuary covers an area of around 500 Sq Kms, encompassing a range of habitats like moist deciduous forests, semi-evergreen forests, and grasslands. 4. Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary in Kodagu district, spanning approximately 181 Sq Kms, is named after the Brahmagiri Hill and was established in 1974. The shola-grassland ecosystems, a unique feature of the Western Ghats, contribute to its high species diversity. The region's rivers and streams are crucial water sources for the sanctuary's inhabitants and is home to the vulnerable Nilgiri Marten- the only Marten species in southern India.Neelakurinji Neclakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana) is a unique and breathtakingly beautiful flowering plant that is native to the southern Western Ghats. It is | B renowned for its mass flowering event that occurs once every 12 years. It is a shrub that typically grows to a height of about 30 to 60 centimeters (1 to 2 feet), Its leaves are simple, lance-shaped, and covered in fine hairs. The most F striking feature is its tubular, purplish-blue flowers with a pale yellow center. ~ India Times The mass blooming of Neelakurinji is a major tourist attraction, can 9 visitors from all over the world t io witness the breathtaking spectacle. In local cultures, Neelal the Kurumba tribe, an indigenous community in the W as cultural ties to this plant. The number of tourists visiting this fragile ecosystem is also P ‘a the areas of bloo ‘ = m.The Living Fossils - Cycads | 8 Cycads are a fascinating group of ancient and primitive seed plants that belong to the division Cycadophyta. Cycad & © They are often referred to as "living fossils" because they are among the oldest seed plants on Earth, with a history dating back to the Jurassic and Triassic periods, around 280 million years ago. They coexisted with dinosaurs. ™ Cycads produce male and female reproductive structures on separate plants. The male plants typically produce cones containing pollen, while the female plants produce large, cone-like structures that house the ovules. ® They are a remarkable group of plants that provide insights into the evolutionary history of seed plants. While they are ancient, they continue to play important roles in ecosystems and are valued for their aesthetic appeal and scientific significance.a San ; Established in 1974, the Mookambika Wildlife i nestled in the Western Ghats of Udupi district spreading over an area of 370 Sq Kms, sanctuary's landscape includes evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, creating a variety of hz for diverse flora and fauna. It is a home to endangered Lion-tailed Macaque and Cane Turtle. & 10. Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary: Established in 1974, it encompasses a range of habitats, including dry deciduous forests, grasslands, and scrublands in an area of about 30 Sq Kms in the Mysura district. The sanctuary's hilly terrain and rock formations add to its scenic beauty. The presence of the Moyar River adds to the sanctuary's ecological importance by providing water sources and Supporting aquatic life. Wildlife includes Indian Elephant, Indian Gaur, Indian Leopard, Spotted Deer and many more. 11. Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in Kodagu & Dakshina Kannada districts, it spans an area of approximately 102 Sq Kms, this sanctuary is named after the Pushpagiri peak, the highest | peak in the region. Established in 1987, it includes evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, : grasslands, and shola forests, creating a mosaic of habitats that support a wide range of species. The region's varied ecosystems contribute to its biodiversity and attract numerous avian species. It is a ———- -_——. Se- to the rare Nilgiri Marten and few interesting birds like Nigiri Marten ym ho + Pied Hornbill, Malabar Trogon, Nilgiri Blackbird and rea G y more ‘Another unique feature of the sanctuary is the man Kukke Subramanya Temple, a revered pilgrimage site located within its boundaries. This temple adds cultural and religious significance to the sanctuary. 32. Ranebennur Blackbuck Sanctuary: This is located in the Haveri district and spread over 119 Sq Kms. This sanctuary was created mainly for the conservation of Blackbucks and it also was a habitat for the critically endangered bird Great Indian Bustard but hasn’t been seen here in a decade. ener Unc bird species native to India, with o aeIMteUE ea RcuaETUalLA) aA UC Lo13. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary: near the town of Srirangapatna. The sanctuary spans across “luster of six islets on the banks of the Kaveri River. These islets, along with the surrounding riparian” forests, create a unique habitat for various bird species. The sanctuary hosts a variety of birds, including Painted Storks, Asian Openbills, Spoonbills, Egrets, Herons, Kingfishers, and more. The proximity to the Kaveri River and the presence of small islets provide ideal breeding and nesting grounds for these birds. Apart from the birdlife, Ranganathittu is also home to Mugger Crocodiles. | This is so far the only Ramsar Site in Karnataka. 14, Sharavathi Valley LTM Wildlife Sanctuary: The Sharavathi Valley Lion-tailed Macaque : (LTM) Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Shimoga district. It covers an area of approximately 930 Sq Kms, making it one of the larger protected areas in the region. While the sanctuary is primarily | established for the conservation of the Lion-tailed Macaque, it is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The sanctuary's lush evergreen and semi-evergrcen forests provide habitat for numerous species of birds, reptiles, amphibians, and other mammals. The sanctuary's flagship species, the Lion-tailed Macaque, is a highly endangered primate that is endemic to the Western Ghats of India. {15. Sti Ramadevarabetta Vulture San 2 Located in the Ramanagara district, it is a Protected area dedicated to the conservation of vulture species. It covers an area of approximately 3.46 Sq Kms. The primary focus of this sanctuary is the conservation of three critically endangered vulture species: the Indian Vulture ( Gyps indicus), the Long-billed Vulture ( Gyps indicus), and the White- rumped Vulture (Gyps bengalensis). The efforts here include creating a safe environment for nesting, monitoring vulture populations, and conducting research to better understand their behavior and needs. Additionally, there are initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of vulture conservation and the risks associated with diclofenac use in livestock. So aN Red-headed White-rumped AUT ant gy acy- Myristica Swamps | Myristica swamps are freshwater swamp forests f 3 Uttara Kannada district, are a unique and eco] significant type of swamp ecosystem. " These swamps are characterized by waterlogged soil water levels varying seasonally. During the monsoon season, they may be completely submerged, while in ¢ as < months, the water level recedes. Myristica swamps are biodiversity hotspots, hosting range of plant and animal species. They provide: and breeding grounds for various amphibians, reptiles, insects, and birds. Several plant species within Myristica swamps are to these ecosystems, meaning they are found nowhere in the world.TOE Dron rinToa eater merce tee Pin Cer net CO cornet Cee organisms by means of bladder like traps, LETS Mere cany 1's Sundew is a species of carnivorous plant known for Pere oe Sutil Get caertecotte Cheeta 1 soe h ROC oe Ts CEES ih rere bitats. The key characteristics include its rosette of small, spoon-shaped leaves covered in glandular hairs. These hairs secrete a sticky mucilage thatiS i cal regions. Mangrove eee OSE Rae Se Cone COLUM LLM Coy Ce ESTCU MST OT scey ye f f A STOO CURTT Ce Se SE Vs tal areas from erosion, storm surges, and tidal waves. USS chee ect OES MES ating the impacts of cyclones and tsunamis. ka’s coastal stretch spans over 320 kilometers and is oc ase be Coc ett Tous smaller x OSE Stree SET Western Ghats SESE OME OMG tr lS ET ST SLRS Cato TST he We aT s Arabian S Seco ns ells orn ishranres tetg LE sa Piteetroee anks. In wider est goli, Aghanashini, and Kali, peg DeLee) FTES found. These 1 EOE retary Sree MOS Renee tse ery. Si ; CoML n rates USSR eae ee eee SSN eee ae Cnt ete Te ieee LUCE ae ee eee ees. LCL ara Tae ee Doroaye Coa ee eee Neen ta ectes\ it UC STS een BUCO RC yon ae eto Seth Sea CSIITCGa ete COCL OT Nn tone ee EIB i ‘ants, a process known as Be rae ke Ln ee LOC Ente nS erate and Dakshina KannadaThe intricate root systems of mangrove trees serve as nurseries and habitats for numerous fish species, crabs, mollusks, and birds. Many of these species te to local livelihoods.Nethrani Island F f ited island located off | ethrani Island, also known as Pigeon Island, is a small, uninhabited island located ot Ne , ical miles (19 km) away from cee ae eee peel eee aes ee areas corals, and colorful coral formations are a common a species of fish like snappers, butterflyfish, ee and suonh among others; and mollusks, crustaceans, and other invertel Neth we including the Olive Ridley Turtle, are known to visit the en : ss and occasionally there are shark sightings, including species like the elusive Whitetip ™ J SesiShark The coral reefs are not only beautiful but also ecologically signi Whitetip Reef Shark provide shelter, breeding grounds, and a source of food for many ma species, contributing to the overall health of the ecosystem. ; Whitetip Reef Sharks are relatively small sharks Wah slender body ; # | distinct white-tipped dorsal fin. are Primarily found in coral reef} lagoons, and rocky underwater environments. They are known or under ledges during the day, becoming more active at night. hunt,Malabar Gliding Frog (Rhacophorus malabaricus) Some Interesting Fauna in Karnataka The Malabar gliding frog is a unique amphibian species found in the Western Ghats of India and Sri Lanka. @ It is renowned for its remarkable gliding abilities. It has large, webbed feet with expanded webbing between the toes. When it leaps from treetops, it spreads its toes and webbing to glide gracefully through the air- They are nocturnal in nature and can be found resting on vegetation, using their camouflage, during the day.The Indian Gaurs are a magnificent and Dore g the Indian subcontinent Evers Pag Comets CRS CeCe Ts ta (2 meters) tall at the shoulder and weigh bet, i e and 1,500 kilograms. - PJeganathan Kolar Leaf-nosed Bat TULL7 " uieret atti CT LCm Ran atTh also take shelter beneath small boulders emcee Coot RU CesT Massie Tm Ite TTay Humpback \ Berens Ro roe en og fan Ore eR RUST OaeTCMUCre tan hcm olin ler Tec (Tor rt from other mahseer species. Adults can Tac ae ia. MRC CAGE COR aU OCU CMS teil cg are primarily found in fete Ye RSLs BIS ei ¢ Western Ghats. These fish are omnivora includes aquatic insects, small fish, ¢re arc arg Forest Cane AT eM ETT MNES as Co Pee! Karnataka wit from 4 to 4.7 inches. They are! Remon a cone occa lnc) as coed Som) ees aoc ms Sacer Coe ues Olive Ridley Turtle Olive Ridley Turtles are known to vis NEE ci MRT Se a aoa Dae CC! 1 of females come ashore to fasted eB Con nce N Etec co Forest Cane Turtle PaaSGrey olender Loris ae anta Grey Slender Loris is a small, arboreal primate Pras oer cts Cereal Lanka. It is noctu Cea Ce Cos ene ceca coc tar ee Mee UO Lg PetCo My oe OST Re UT en TCR aecice Om cmu erm Caer aie i r 1 | concerns. These are called ‘Kaadu Paapa’ in Kannada, reed David’s Caeci CCT Une er ee PTC cree CMe roe Me Celi from the Western emer el Ente eats) cee oor tcc amphibians. Boa typically CREO Ocoee ee Cmmrre Cerne lela Reser teste ce-ygtited ROTOR TCM N ce SCRE CRO uc eR comnts) a significant portion of their lives underground. David's TORE Mo TM MSM CeCe ie Cem ThaDeers of Karnataka Re omc BXceXccc elope and sustain good nun forests of Karnataka Southern Red Muntjac / Barking Deer (Muntiacus muntjak) aa — Kartik G Salehittal =MoinudheenCivets of Karnataka Small Indian Civet Giant / Squi o Karnc Asian Palm Civet Indian Giant Squirre (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) (Ratufa indica) cE Malabar Civet ~ Bernard Dupont & IUCN Red Listgiant / Flying Squirrels of Indian Giant Squirrel (Ratufa indica) Travancore Flying Squirrel (Petinomys fuscocapillus) Grizzled Giant Squirrel (Ratufa macroura) Indian Giant Flying Squirrel (Petaurista philippensis)Antelopes of Karnataka rom SG PTTOmGe Thy rotected areas an CUTTS CCEE RTS UCe LE RToaN STs le National Park, Bandipur National Park. and ot}, on Blackbuck Indian Gazelle / Chinkara Four-hi (Antilope cervicapra) (Gazella bennettii) (Teirncsos rag velop ! ss a a ricors)Civets of Karnataka Indian Civet ;cula indica) ~Rejaul Karimn & IUCN Red List Asian Palm Civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) Pet = Malabar Civet Brown Palm Civet (Viverra civettina) (Paradoxurus jerdoni) 3 fa ~ Neelakandan Madavana & IUCN Red List