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Mount abu sanctuary
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.
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