BUXA TIGER RESERVE (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Env and Eco)

Context: Two years ago, a fleeting glimpse of a tiger gave way to disappointment in West Bengal’s Buxa National Park, as the big cat was not to be seen again.

Buxa Tiger Reserve

• Location: BTR is located in the Alipurduar district of West Bengal.
• Establishment: In 1983, Buxa Tiger Reserve holds the distinction of being the 15th tiger reserve in India.
• Boundaries: BTR's northern boundary aligns with the international border with Bhutan.

oThe Sinchula hill range extends along the northern side, while the eastern boundary touches that of Assam.

• Biodiversity: It represents the highly endemic Indo-Malayan region.

oThe fragile "Terai Ecosystem" is an integral part of this reserve.

• International Boundaries: The Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary of Bhutan is contiguous to the north, and Manas National Park lies to the east of BTR.
• Rivers: Jayanti, Sankosh, Raidak, Churnia, Turturi, Dima, Nonani, and Phashkhawa.
• Conservation Initiatives

oRajabhatkhawa Vulture Breeding Center: Situated at Buxa Tiger Reserve, was established for the breeding and conservation of endangered Indian vultures.