|
Located
at a distance of approximately 22 km from the Sambalpur
district, Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the
most popular tourist destinations in Orissa. It is
spread over an area of approximately 285 square km and
serves as the natural habitat of tigers, leopards and
sambars. The flora of the sanctuary comprises of several
species like Sal, Sandalwood, Arjun, Neem, Acacia and
Casuarinas. The best time to visit the reserve is from
October to May. There are two watchtowers in Ushakothi
Wildlife Sanctuary, from where one can have an aerial
view of the surroundings.
Fauna
The most popular attraction of the Ushakothi Wildlife
Sanctuary comprises of Panthers, large spotted feline
species. Since they are nocturnal creatures, one has to
take a jeep safari at night to get a close view. Other
wild animals seen at the sanctuary are Sambal, Chital,
Nilgai, Leopards, Wolves, Tigers and Elephants. Infact,
it is said that there are 15 tigers and 35 elephants in
Ushakothi. Though Sloth Bears are rare, one can hope to
see them at dusk, when they come to drink water in the
nearby river.
|
