Ecological Diversity and Habitat Conservation in Sohagibarwa Wildlife Sanctuary: An Integrated Assessment of Forests, Wetlands, Grasslands and Wildlife

Abstract

Sohagibarwa Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh represents an important Terai landscape in which forests, grasslands, wetlands, rivers and riparian habitats occur together and support diverse wildlife. The present paper provides an integrated assessment of the major ecological resources and habitat characteristics of the sanctuary, with particular attention to the relationship between habitat diversity and biodiversity conservation. The assessment is based on available sanctuary-level ecological and avifaunal information and examines the seven forest ranges, wetland systems, grassland habitats and important wildlife groups. The sanctuary comprises seven ranges—Pakadi, Laxmipur, North Chowk, South Chowk, Madhwalia, Nichlaul and Sheopur—and supports approximately 21 identified wetlands and 21 recorded grassland locations. The grasslands cover approximately 3,942.5 ha, while wetlands include important bird habitats such as Singraina Taal, Pidari Taal and other seasonal water bodies. Singraina Taal is particularly significant for migratory and resident waterbirds, with more than 150 migratory and resident water and woodland bird species reported around the wetland in the available study material. Other important ecological features include Sal forests, riparian vegetation, grasslands, the Choti Gandak riverine system and habitats supporting raptors, Sarus Crane, Lesser Adjutant, Mugger and other wildlife. The findings indicate that conservation planning should consider the sanctuary as a connected habitat mosaic rather than treating individual forests, wetlands and grasslands separately. Habitat monitoring, wetland protection, grassland management, regulation of human disturbance and community participation are important for maintaining ecological integrity.