Discover Rare Species at Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary – Kerala’s Pristine Forest

Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary

The Aralam wildlife sanctuary of Kerala is the northernmost protected area of State, situated in the southeast region of Kannur District. It is contiguous with Wayanad-Brahmagiri, Wayanad northern slopes and the other important Protected Areas of Karnataka including the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary and the forests of Coorg.

Aralam wildlife sanctuary was declared a sanctuary in 1984 and spreads over 55 sq km area covered with tropical and semi-evergreen forests along with some patches of moist deciduous forests. The sanctuary also harbours teak and cashew plantations.

The Aralam sanctuary is home to diverse range of flora and fauna. Official surveys say that it has 23 species of mammals, around 22 species of reptiles, 16 species of amphibians and 39 species of fishes. somewhere around 188 different species of birds have also been recorded in theAralam sanctuary.

Some key species found here include the Malabar gliding frog, Malabar giant squirrel, lion-tailed macaque and Sri Lankan frogmouth. The area also sees the unique phenomenon of butterfly migration during October-December.

The terrain is highly undulating, typical of the Western Ghats. The elevation varies from 60 m to 1,589 m above sea level.

Geography

The Aralam wildlife sanctuary is located in the Western Ghats mountain range. It is contiguous with the forests of Karnataka state, including the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary and forests of Coorg district.

The sanctuary sits atop the northwest slopes of the Western Ghats. It joins the pristine forests of the Kodagu district of Karnataka.

The terrain of the sanctuary is described as highly undulating, typical of the hilly geography of the Western Ghats region. The elevation ranges from 60 m to 1,589 m above sea level across the sanctuary area spanning 55 sq km.

So in short, Aralam wildlife sanctuary is strategically located within the richly biodiverse Western Ghats mountain belt, bordered by forests of neighboring state Karnataka. The undulating hilly terrain covered in tropical greenery provides habitat to diverse flora and fauna.

Flora & Fauna

Flora

The Aralam wildlife sanctuary is blessed with 961 species of flowering plants, with over 300 species endemic to Peninsular India according to surveys.

Some notable floral species found here include orchids (47 species, 20 endemic), wild coffee (Coffea crassifolia), and unique trees like Dipterocarpus bourdillonii (Karanjili) that has not been reported from anywhere else north of Palakkad Gap.

Fauna

Amphibians found in the sanctuary include the endemic Malabar gliding frog and Malabar tree toad.

Mammal species recorded here include the endangered lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri langur, and Malabar giant squirrel. Even the tiger is frequently spotted in these parts.

Over 188 species of birds have been documented, like the rare Sri Lankan frogmouth and hornbills such as the Great Pied Hornbill.

The sanctuary harbors exceptional biodiversity of vegetation, amphibians, mammals and birds, including many rare and endemic species unique to the Western Ghats region. Strict conservation efforts have allowed their thriving populations.

Rivers

The Cheenkanni River flows through the sanctuary, originating from the upper reaches of Brahmagiri Hills. Its water is described as crystal clear along its course, with sequestered pools mirroring the green hills around.

The river is crucial in sustaining the economy of Kannur district by providing water for agriculture, inland fisheries and drinking purposes. The sanctuary’s forest-rich watershed and drainage system keep the river perennial.

Within the sanctuary is the popular tourist attraction of Meenmutty Waterfalls. Visitors can take a 4 hour trek through scenic rainforest to reach it.

Trekking Attractions

The Ambalappara Watchtower site, about 1500m above sea level, provides amazing panoramic views across Aralam and the Western Ghats.

There are various trails and campsites within the 55 sq km sanctuary area that adventure seekers can explore.

Conclusion

The Aralam wildlife sanctuary harbors a unique ecosystem with exceptionally high biodiversity across its flora and fauna.

Community-based conservation efforts are underway, with regular nature camps educating local students. Ecotourism initiatives also aim to promote sustainability by generating awareness.

So this pristine sanctuary tucked amidst the streams and waterfalls of the Brahmagiri Hills plays an integral role in preserving the fragile ecology of the Western Ghats.

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