Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR)

Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR) : Recently, a herpetofauna survey conducted in the Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR) led to the discovery of five new species of amphibians and three new species of reptiles, highlighting the region’s remarkable biodiversity.

• About PTR : Located in Idukki district, central Kerala, along the Tamil Nadu border.

o Geography: Situated in the Cardamom and Pandalam Hills of the Western Ghats.

o Area: Covers around 777 sq. km, established in 1982.

o Periyar Lake: Formed in 1895 after the construction of a dam on the Periyar River to divert water to Tamil Nadu.

o Elevation: Hilly terrain with Kottamala (2016 m) being the highest peak.

o Rivers: Acts as a watershed for both the Periyar and Pamba rivers.

o Dam: The Mullaperiyar Dam lies within the reserve.

o Tribes: Inhabited by indigenous groups like the Mannans and Palians.

o Flora: Rich in species like teak, rosewood, tamarind, jamun, mango, bamboo, and more.

o Mammals: Home to tigers, elephants, wild pigs, sambar, gaur, barking deer, Indian wild dogs, and mouse deer.

o Primates: Hosts five species including the rare lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri langur, and bonnet macaque

o Birds: Over 260 species, including the great hornbill and Malabar grey hornbill.

o Other Species: Possible habitat for the elusive Nilgiri Tahr.