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Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary

Context:

Recently, the first-ever sighting of the elusive Barkudia limbless skink has been reported within the Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary boundaries in Visakhapatnam.

Relevance:

GS III: Environment and Ecology

Dimensions of the Article:

  1. About New Species
  2. Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary

About New Species:

  • The Visakhapatnam limbless skink (Barkudia melanosticta) is a small reptile known for its distinctive limbless body and remarkable adaptations. It has remained elusive to scientific observations for a long time.
  • This species is believed to be endemic to the Visakhapatnam region.

Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary:

  • Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary is a vast forest reserve situated near Vishakapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, India.
  • The sanctuary derives its name from the local hill, Kambalakonda.
  • It has been under the administration of the Andhra Pradesh Forest Department since 1970.
  • Topography: The sanctuary features considerable hilly terrain with steep slopes.

Flora:

  • The forest cover in the sanctuary primarily consists of dry evergreen forests, along with a mix of scrublands and meadows.
  • Notable flora in the region includes the striking Indian screw tree and various flowers and fruits like the Bush plum tree and Jungle berry bunches.

Fauna:

  • The sanctuary is home to several rare animal species, including the Indian leopard, Indian pangolin, Madras treeshrew, Barking Deer, and Jackal.
  • It also houses the Russel’s viper (Daboia russelii), a rare breed of snake.
  • The avian population in the sanctuary includes uncommon birds such as the Indian Golden oriole, Indian peafowl, and Banded bay cuckoo.

-Source: The Hindu


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