The Tadoba National Park, located in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, is a treasure among India’s natural reserves. Traversing an area of 116.5 square kilometers, it was selected as a National Park in 1955. Together with the nearby Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary, it forms the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, one of India’s exclusive tiger habitats.
Geographical Features of Tadoba National Park
The Tadoba National Park occupies 116.5 square kilometers, which, when combined with the Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary’s 508.8 square kilometers, creates a tiger reserve of 625.4 square kilometers. The landscape features two major lakes, Kolsa Lake and Tadoba Lake, as well as the Andhari River, which flows through the region, enriching its biodiversity.
The Tadoba Lake, covering an area of around 300 acres, is a critical feature of the park. It acts as a natural boundary, separating the forested area from the farmlands that stretch up to the Irai reservoir. A perennial water body, the lake provides a reliable habitat for crocodiles and other aquatic species within the park. Tadoba National Park is divided into three forest ranges:
- Kolsa Range (south),
- Tadoba Range (north)
- Mohurli Range
Flora and Fauna at Tadoba National Park
The Tadoba National Park is celebrated for its diverse ecosystem, which includes a rich array of flora and fauna. Below is a detailed description of the wildlife and plant life that thrive in this remarkable reserve.
Fauna of Tadoba National Park
As Maharashtra’s largest wildlife sanctuary, Tadoba is home to an impressive variety of species. The 2018 tiger census estimated the presence of approximately 88 tigers within the park, a testament to its importance as a conservation area for these majestic predators. Alongside the tiger population, the park supports a wide range of mammals, reptiles, birds, and insects.
The reptile population includes marsh crocodiles and the endangered Indian pythons, making the park a haven for herpetology enthusiasts. Birdwatchers can revel in the sight of 195 recorded bird species, including rare and migratory birds, while 74 species of butterflies add vibrant splashes of color to the forest.
Mammals frequently spotted in the park include:
- Hyenas
- Spotted deer
- Wild boars
- Barking deer
- Gaurs
- Four-horned antelopes
- Blue bulls
- Indian pangolins
- Common langurs
- Porcupines
Flora of Tadoba National Park
The forest type of Tadoba is predominantly tropical dry deciduous, with teak being the dominant tree species. Other prominent trees include Haldu, Salai, Semal, Shisham, Bel, Gum, Mahua, Tendu, Palas, Ain, Dhawada, Harra, Hirda, and Karaya. The lush greenery is interspersed with bamboo groves, adding variety to the dense vegetation.
Several medicinal plants also thrive in the park, playing a vital role in traditional medicine. Some notable examples include:
- Kujali or Velvet Bean: A climber plant used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.
- Bheria plant: Its leaves act as an effective insect repellent.
- Beheda: A plant known for its medicinal properties and commonly used in Ayurveda.
Climate of Tadoba National Park
The climate in Tadoba National Park is marked by distinct seasonal variations. Winters are mild and pleasant, summers are scorching, and the monsoon season brings a much-needed respite from the heat.
Winter (November to February):
During winter, the daytime temperature ranges between 27°C and 30°C, while the overall average hovers between 20°C and 30°C. The park transforms into a lush green haven during this season, attracting a large number of tourists.
Summer (March to June):
Summers are intense, with temperatures soaring up to 48°C. The vegetation becomes sparse, and wildlife is often concentrated near water sources, making it easier for visitors to spot animals.
Monsoon (June to September):
The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, with the park receiving approximately 127.5 cm of rainfall annually. The average humidity during this period is around 66%. While the rain rejuvenates the forest and provides relief to its wildlife, the core area of the park becomes inaccessible due to flooding. During this time, only the buffer zone remains open for tourists.
Threats to Tadoba National Park
Despite its ecological significance, Tadoba National Park faces several challenges that threaten its delicate balance.
Human Settlements:
There are 59 villages in and around the park, housing over 40,000 residents. Five of these villages lie within the core zone of the reserve. Grazing by domesticated cattle often disrupts the park’s ecosystem. Although grazing is regulated and restricted to the buffer zone, instances of cattle entering the core area are not uncommon, causing damage to the habitat.
Forest Fires:
Annual forest fires during the summer season result in significant damage, burning 2% to 16% of the park’s area each year.
Man-Animal Conflict:
Encounters between humans and wildlife are a recurring issue. In 2013, for example, animals such as tigers, leopards, and sloth bears were responsible for the deaths of over 30 cattle and at least four people.
Coal Mining:
Rampant coal mining in Chandrapur and surrounding areas poses a severe threat to the park’s ecosystem. Experts warn that mining activities could fragment tiger habitats, leading to irreversible damage that cannot be compensated for through afforestation.
Dam Construction:
Plans to construct a dam on the Hooman River threaten to submerge 90% of the 7-kilometer forest area within the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. This development could devastate the biodiversity of the region.
Declining Prey Density:
While the tiger population has shown improvement, a 2020 survey indicated a slight decline in prey density, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of the park’s predator-prey dynamics.