About Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary:
- It is situated in northwestern Madhya Pradesh, with one of its boundaries running along the border of Rajasthan.
- The sanctuary was notified in 1974 and is spread over an area of 368 sq.km.
- Rivers: The Chambal River flows through the sanctuary, dividing it into two parts.
- The presence of the Gandhi Sagar Dam further enhances the region, forming a large reservoir.
- The sanctuary houses sites of historical and archaeological significance, such as Chaurasigarh, Chaturbhujnath Temple, Bhadkaji rock paintings, Hinglajgarh Fort, and Taxakeshwar Temple.
- Topography: A major part of the sanctuary consists of vast open landscapes with sparse vegetation and rocky terrain, with small patches of dense forests here and there.
- Flora:
- It lies within the Khathiar-Gir dry deciduous forests ecoregion.
- The principal tree species found are Khair, Salai, Kardhai, Dhawda, Tendu, Palash and the like.
- Fauna:
- Herbivores like Chinkara, Nilgai and Spotted Deer, and carnivores like the Indian Leopard, Striped Hyena and Jackal are found in good numbers in the region.
- It was chosen as a favourable site for the reintroduction of cheetahs in India.
- It is a designated Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA).
