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Discover the Ecological Riches of Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, Uttar Pradesh

Pilibhit Tiger Reserve
The Pilibhit Tiger Reserve is a protected area located in the Pilibhit district of Uttar Pradesh, India. It was established with the aim of conserving the natural habitat and promoting the survival of endangered species, particularly the Bengal tiger.
This article provides an overview of the reserve’s history, geography, and biodiversity, as well as highlighting key conservation efforts. This article will provide a comprehensive understanding of the importance and significance of this reserve in safeguarding wildlife populations and their habitats.
Pilibhit Tiger Reserve | |
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Location & Geography | |
Details | Situated in UP, along India-Nepal border Part of Terai Arc Landscape Terai region – foothills of Himalayas Rivers like Gomti, Sharda, Ghaghara |
History & Establishment | |
Background | Early protected forest reserve since 1908 Wildlife sanctuary status in 1984 Declared a tiger reserve in 2014 |
Biodiversity | |
Flora & Fauna | Sal forests, grasslands, swamps Tiger, leopard, deer, birds etc. Endangered species like hispid hare, Bengal florican |
Conservation | |
Measures | Protection, patrolling Addressing human-wildlife conflicts Coordination with Nepal |
Significance | |
Importance | Vital tiger habitat High biodiversity value Need for continued conservation efforts |
Connectivity | |
Aspects | Transboundary migration of wildlife Contiguous landscape across India-Nepal border |
Introduction
The Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, located in the Pilibhit district of Uttar Pradesh, India, is a critical tiger habitat spread across an area of approximately 730 square kilometers. Situated in the Terai region at the foothills of the Himalayas, it forms part of the Terai Arc Landscape and shares its border with Nepal.
The reserve consists of diverse terrain comprising sal forests, extensive grasslands, swamps, and wetlands that are periodically flooded by rivers like Sharda and Gomti. This unique ecosystem supports a significant population of Bengal tigers as well as numerous other endangered wildlife species.
The establishment of Pilibhit Tiger Reserve under Project Tiger in 2014 was a crucial step towards focused protection and strengthened conservation efforts for this ecologically rich habitat. Its location along the India-Nepal border adds to its ecological significance and highlights its importance as a tiger conservation area in India.

History and Establishment
Declared as a wildlife sanctuary of Uttar Pradesh in 1984, the area was later designated as a tiger reserve under Project Tiger in 2014. This move aimed to further protect the diverse wildlife within the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve.
The establishment of this reserve reflects India’s commitment to conservation efforts and recognizes the importance of preserving endangered species such as tigers. The designation under Project Tiger signifies that Pilibhit is now part of a larger network of reserves dedicated to safeguarding these majestic creatures.
With its rich biodiversity and strategic location, the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting sustainable development in the region.

Pilibhit Tiger Reserve Area Information | |
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Aspect | Data |
Total Area | 730.2498 sq.km (approximately 281.22 square miles) |
Core Area | 602.7980 sq.km (approximately 231.99 square miles) |
Buffer Area | 127.4518 sq.km (approximately 49.23 square miles) |
Terrain | Dense forests, grasslands, wetlands, rivers |
Rivers in Pilibhit Tiger Reserve | |
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River Name | Details |
Gomti | Originates from the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve |
Sharda/Mahakali | Originates in the western Himalayas, acts as northeastern boundary separating the reserve from areas in Nepal |
Ghaghara/Karnali | Originates in the high Himalayas, marks part of the southwestern boundary and is a major tributary of the River Ganges |
Others | Chuka, Mala Khannot |
Lakes and Dams in Pilibhit Tiger Reserve | |
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Name | Description |
Sharda Sagar Dam | Stretches for 22 kilometers, serves multiple purposes including irrigation, power generation, located on the boundary of the reserve, influences the reserve’s hydrology. Contains Chuka Beach within the reservoir |
Barasingha Lake | Located within the reserve, named after the swamp deer (state animal of Uttar Pradesh) |
Tribes in Pilibhit Tiger Reserve | |
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Tribe Name | Description |
Tharu Tribe | Major tribal community, distinct cultural identity, rich tradition of dances, music, handicrafts, known for agricultural practices, deeply connected to the forest. |
Early history
Established in 1908 as a protected forest reserve, the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve has a rich history of conservation efforts. Initially, the area aimed to conserve natural resources and forest ecosystems. It remained a reserved forest area under the administration of the Pilibhit Forest Division for several decades.
The early history of the reserve involved measures such as afforestation, protection against illegal logging and poaching, and habitat restoration to support biodiversity conservation. Over time, the reserve’s management strategies evolved to incorporate scientific research, community engagement, and sustainable development practices.
Today, the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve serves as an important stronghold for various endangered species, including tigers and elephants. Its significance extends beyond national borders as it contributes to global efforts towards conserving biodiversity and mitigating climate change impacts through its diverse ecosystems and crucial carbon sequestration potential.

Gaining protections
The Pilibhit wilderness has undergone a transformative journey in terms of its conservation status.
In 1984, it was declared a wildlife sanctuary, recognizing its importance as a habitat for diverse species.
Building upon this recognition, in 2014, the area was further elevated to the status of a tiger reserve under Project Tiger, highlighting the significance of protecting and conserving its tiger population.
1984 – Declared wildlife sanctuary
Designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1984, the Pilibhit Wildlife Sanctuary has played a crucial role in safeguarding the area’s diverse biodiversity and wildlife. This protected status has provided legal safeguards and enhanced conservation efforts within the sanctuary.
The declaration of the Pilibhit Wildlife Sanctuary as a designated area for wildlife protection has had significant implications for the preservation of this region’s natural resources. By establishing protocols and regulations to mitigate human interference, it allows for the sustainable coexistence of various flora and fauna species. Furthermore, this recognition ensures that necessary measures are taken to maintain ecological balance and prevent habitat destruction.
Pilibhit Tiger Reserve Location Map
2014 – Declared as tiger reserve under Project Tiger
Recognized as one of the critical habitats for tigers in India, the declaration of Pilibhit Wildlife Sanctuary as a tiger reserve under Project Tiger has enabled focused conservation efforts and ecosystem management.
This designation signifies the importance of Pilibhit in sustaining viable tiger populations and highlights the significance of the Terai landscape.
As a tiger reserve, Pilibhit benefits from increased monitoring and protection measures, ensuring the well-being and survival of this endangered species.
The inclusion of Pilibhit as the 45th tiger reserve in India is part of the larger Project Tiger initiative by the Government of India, which aims to conserve and restore tiger populations across various protected areas in the country.
Geography and Location
The Terai region, located in Uttar Pradesh along the India-Nepal border, is part of the Terai Arc Landscape.
It is characterized by its position as the foothills of the Himalayas and encompasses diverse terrain and habitat types including sal forests, grasslands, and wetlands.
The Terai region is also home to several important rivers such as the Gomti, Sharda, and Ghaghara rivers, which play a crucial role in shaping the landscape and providing water resources for both human communities and wildlife populations.
Location
Located along the India-Nepal border in Uttar Pradesh, the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve is strategically positioned in the foothills of the Himalayas. This reserve forms a vital part of the Terai Arc Landscape, a transboundary conservation initiative between India and Nepal aimed at protecting shared ecosystems of the Terai region.
The reserve’s location in the foothills of the Himalayas provides it with unique geographical advantages. It serves as a transition zone between the mountains and plains, resulting in diverse habitats and rich biodiversity. The proximity to Nepal also enhances its conservation value by facilitating connectivity for wildlife across international borders.
The strategic position of Pilibhit Tiger Reserve not only contributes to its ecological significance but also presents opportunities for collaboration between India and Nepal in conserving this globally important landscape.
Terrain and habitat
Sal dominated moist deciduous forests, extensive grasslands, swamps and wetlands make up the diverse terrain of the Terai belt in Uttar Pradesh along the India-Nepal border.
The dominant sal forests provide a crucial habitat for various flora and fauna species, serving as an important breeding ground for several endangered animals, including tigers. The reserve’s extensive grasslands offer grazing opportunities for herbivores such as deer and antelopes.
Additionally, the presence of swamps and wetlands provides essential water sources for both resident and migratory bird populations. These diverse habitats within the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve contribute to its rich biodiversity and support various ecological processes.
Rivers
Several rivers and streams passes through the reserve, including the River Gomti which originates here in Pilibhit. Other important rivers are Sharda, Ghaghara and Chuka, which determine the hydrology and provide perennial water sources. The rivers Sharda and Ghaghara form parts of the natural boundary of the reserve.
The presence of rivers in the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve plays a crucial role in maintaining the overall ecosystem balance. These rivers provide water for drinking and bathing to numerous animal species, while also serving as a source of food for many aquatic organisms. Additionally, they create microhabitats along their banks, which support a rich diversity of plant life.
Rivers act as natural corridors, allowing animals to move between different parts of their habitats and facilitating transboundary migration between India and Nepal. Moreover, these rivers play a vital role in regulating temperature and humidity levels within the reserve, creating favorable conditions for both terrestrial and aquatic life forms.
Biodiversity
The flora in this area includes species such as Sal, Khair, Sissoo, and bamboo, which thrive in grasslands and swamps.
The fauna of Pilibhit Tiger Reserve is characterized by the presence of iconic animals like tigers, leopards, deer, as well as a variety of bird species.
Mammals | ||
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Bengal Tiger | Spotted Deer | Rhesus Macaque |
Swamp Deer | Hog Deer | Common Langur |
Leopard | Barking Deer | Porcupine |
Fishing Cat | Blackbuck | Small Indian Civet |
Leopard Cat | Sambar Deer | Golden Jackal |
Sloth Bear | Indian Fox | |
Short-nosed Fruit Bat | Hyena | |
Painted Bat | Hispid Hare |
Birds | ||
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Bengal Florican | Grey Partridge | Cormorants |
Darter | Black Partridge | Egrets |
Lesser Whistling Duck | Swamp Partridge | Herons |
Combed Duck | Peafowl | Hornbill |
Red Jungle Fowl | Eagle | |
Saras |
Reptiles |
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Lizards |
Snakes |
Mugger Crocodile |
Gharial |
Flora
Dalbergia sissoo is one of the commonly found trees in the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, contributing to its diverse flora. Along with other dominant species such as Shorea robusta and Acacia catechu, Dalbergia sissoo plays a significant role in shaping the vegetation composition of the reserve.
The forest cover consists primarily of sal forests, which account for approximately 76% of the total forest area. Additionally, Madhuca longifolia and bamboo are also prevalent within the reserve. The understory comprises various shrubs, climbers, and grasses that further enhance the ecological diversity.
Moreover, extensive grasslands interspersed between forest patches create distinct habitats characterized by tall elephant grass and spear grass. Wetlands in the form of swamps and marshlands add to this rich flora, supporting unique hydrophytes and fostering diverse aquatic biodiversity within the reserve.
Fauna
One of the prominent mammals found in the area include the Royal Bengal tiger, which contributes to the diverse fauna within this region. Other significant mammal species in Pilibhit Tiger Reserve are Asiatic elephants, swamp deer, hog deer, barking deer, leopards, and sloth bears.
The reserve also supports a rich reptile population that includes marsh crocodiles and gharials. In terms of avifauna, Pilibhit Tiger Reserve is home to over 450 bird species. Amongst these, some endangered species such as the Bengal florican, Indian skimmer, and Jerdon’s courser can be found.
Additionally, notable bird species like the swamp francolin, Indian Pitta, and Oriental white-backed vulture also inhabit this region.
Endangered species
Protecting this vital habitat of endangered species such as the Bengal florican, hispid hare, marsh crocodile, and vultures is crucial for their survival. These species play a significant role in maintaining the ecological balance of the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve and the Terai region.
The Bengal florican (Houbaropsis bengalensis), a critically endangered bird, relies on grasslands for nesting and feeding. Similarly, the hispid hare (Caprolagus hispidus) depends on dense grassy areas for cover and food sources. The marsh crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) requires wetland habitats to breed and thrive. Vultures are vital scavengers that help prevent disease outbreaks by consuming carcasses.
Conservation Efforts
Various measures have been implemented to safeguard the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve. These measures include extensive protection and patrolling of core areas, addressing human-wildlife conflict, transboundary conservation efforts with Nepal, capacity building of staff, and regular assessment of tiger populations.
Extensive protection and patrolling are crucial in deterring poaching and illegal activities within the reserve. This helps to maintain the integrity of the ecosystem and protect the tiger population.
Human-wildlife conflict is another important focus area due to the proximity of settlements and agricultural lands. Interventions such as solar powered electric fencing, compensation for crop damage, and eco-development initiatives help promote co-existence between humans and wildlife.
Collaboration with Nepal is vital as the reserve lies on the international boundary. Transboundary conservation efforts involve exchanging intelligence and strengthening protection mechanisms to combat wildlife crime.
Capacity building of staff is also a priority. This includes training and equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage and protect the reserve. Night patrolling and the establishment of wildlife crime control units further enhance the protection efforts.
Regular assessment of tiger populations using camera traps is an important tool in monitoring the health and status of the tiger population. This information helps inform conservation strategies and management decisions.
Conclusion
The Pilibhit Tiger Reserve is not only a significant tiger habitat but also an important sanctuary for biodiversity conservation. It is home to numerous endangered, vulnerable, and threatened species of flora and fauna. However, the reserve faces various challenges such as human settlements around its boundaries and poaching activities.
To ensure the long-term preservation of this rich Terai ecosystem, it is crucial to adopt a multi-pronged approach that includes protecting the reserve from encroachment and illegal activities, managing its habitats effectively, monitoring wildlife populations closely, involving local communities in conservation initiatives, and collaborating with neighboring countries for transboundary efforts.