|
 The
sanctuary comprises the oldest mountain ranges - The
Aravali. It was declared as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1960.
Apart from having several sightseeing places this sanctuary
is a draw for nature lovers as it has great potential for
Eco-tourism, In shape this sanctuary is long and narrow
but the top spreads out into a picturesque plateau which is
about 19 km. is length and 5-8 km. in breadth. Attitudinally
it varies from 300m. at the foot Mil to 1722m. at
Gurashikhar, the highest peak of the Aravali Ranges.
The rocks are igneous and due the weathering effect of wind
and water, large cavities are common the rocks. This feature
is typical of Aravali and particularly of Mt. Abu. Toad Rock
in Mount Abu is one such example.
 Mount
Abu has a very rich floral biodiversity starting with
xenomorphic subtropical thorn forest at the foot hills to
subtropical evergreen forest along water courses and valleys
at higher altitudes. These forests consist of 112 plant
families with 449 genera and 820 species. Of these, 663
species are dicots while 157 species are monocots.
Mount Abu is the only place in Rajasthan where one can
observe a variety of orchids. The place is also rich in
bryophytes and algae. Three species of wild roses and 16
species of feras some of which are quite rare have also been
reported from here. The South- West part of the Sanctuary is
rich in bamboo forests.
The sanctuary is rich in herbal medicinal plants also. About
81 species of tree, 89 species of shrubs, 28 species of
climbers and 17 species of tuberous plants of medicinal
importance have been identified.
A variety of fauna Including highly rare, threatened and
endangered species are found in this sanctuary. The past
history of Mount Abu indicates the presence of Lion (last
recorded in 1872) and Tiger (last reported in 1970).
Presently the Panther is the apex predator. Other animals
found here are Sambhar, Jungle Cat, Small Indian Civet,
Wolf, Hyaena, Jackal, Indian Fox, Common Langoor, Wild Boar,
Pangolin, Rate!, Common Mongoose, Indian Hare, Porcupine,
Hedgehog, etc. The sanctuary provides an ideal habitat for
Sloth Bear, The population of Sloth Bear is increasing
regularly as it can be seen while going through the forests
or motoring on the road. |
