Palamau Tiger Reserve

News: The Jharkhand Forest Department has initiated a study to revive the dwindling population of Bison (also Known as Gaur) at Palamau Tiger Reserve. 

About Palamau Tiger Reserve 

• Palamau Tiger Reserve is in the western part of the Chotanagpur plateau, and it is the only tiger reserve in the state of Jharkhand. 
  • The tiger reserve is spread over two districts– Latehar and Garhwa and forms a part of the Betla National Park. 
• It has an undulating topography with valleys, hills and plains. Three rivers that flow through the valleys include North Koyal, Auranga and Burha. 
  • The area is draught drone with Burha being the only perennial river.  
• The geological formation consists of gneiss and includes granite and limestone. The area is also very rich in minerals like Bauxite and Coal. 
• The Palamau Tiger Reserve falls under the lndo-Malayan realm and is known for its floral and faunal diversity. 
  • Flora: The vegetation in Palamau is primarily dominated by Sal forests, mixed deciduous forests and bamboo groves. 
  • Fauna: Important keystone and principal species found in the reserve include Tiger, Leopard, Sambar, Four-horned Antelope, Pangolin, Indian Ratel, Cheetal, Wolf, Elephant, Mouse Deer, Indian Otter. 
• Palamau has good corridor connectivity with other tiger habitats such as Bandhavgarh, Sanjay-Dubri, Achanakmar and Kanha Tiger Reserves. The important corridors include: 
  • Palamau-Badalkhol-Achanakmar-Kanha 
  • Palamau-Sanjay-Bandhavgarh