Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the popular sanctuaries located along the river Manjira near Sangareddy, the district head quarters of Medak in Telangana.
Location of Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary
Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary in Medak District is nestled between Manjira and Singoor barrages, the sanctuary covers an area of 20 Sq km. it is 50 Km from Hyderabad and is well connected by road. The sanctuary follows the course of river Manjira over a length of 36 km. The Manjira Wildlife sanctuary has been formed by nine small islands like Puttigadda, Bapangadda, Sangamadda, Karnamgadda. Here one can see a number of animals, reptiles like Marsh Crocodiles and Muggers and migratory birds and reptiles like Marsh Crocodiles and Muggers.
Flora and Fauna of Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary
Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary serves as the abode of various migratory and resident birds and marsh crocodiles. The islands and the river banks of the sanctuary are bordered by thick growth of trees like babul and prosopis trees that attract different species of birds. Plants normally found in water are Pistia, Hydrilla, Eichornia and Vallisneria. Different species of birds found here are Painted Storks, Herons, Coots, Teals, Cormorants, Pochards, Black and White Ibises, Spoon Bills, and Open Billed Storks etc. The river banks have a variety of fishes like Catla, Rahu, Murrel, Ech Paten, Karugu and Chidwa. Reptiles like Monitor Lizards, Fresh Water Turtles, Cobra and Marsh Crocodiles can also be seen here.
The main attractions in Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary are Marsh Crocodile and White Ibises. Presently there are about 300 crocodiles in the sanctuary. During 1974, the mugger had almost reached the level of extinction with just four pairs left. Later the haven was declared as a crocodile sanctuary by the government. The breeding of crocodiles are also done here.
Environmental Education Centre in Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary
An Environmental Education Centre with a museum, a library, and an auditorium is situated here. This helps in fostering knowledge to the tourists about the nature conservation and maintenance of ecological balance. Boats are in operation to take the guests around the sanctuary for bird watching. Tourists are also provided with books and binoculars to get a better glimpse of the animals residing in the sanctuary. In addition films on nature and wildlife are also shown on a regular basis. The best time to visit the Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary is during the months of November to March.
