Wild life and ecotourism of Meghalaya

Meghalaya is considered by many biologists to have been the gateway through which many species of Indo-Chinese origin, particularly mammals migrated to Peninsular India. It is said that about 50% of the total number of mammal genera found in the entire Indian sub-continent can be seen in Meghalaya and its adjoining states in the Northeast. Out of the above, nine genera of mammals, such as Tupaia, Rhizomys, Cannomys, Chiropodomys, Micromys, etc occur only in Meghalaya and its adjacent areas.

In the forests of Meghalaya, specially in lower altitudes, multifarious species of birds can be seen in abundance. Some of the common birds found in Meghalaya include Hoopoe, long tailed Broadbill, Scarlet Minivet, Burmese Roller, Blue Throated Barbet, red veted Bulbul, Himalayan black Bulbul, Himalayan whistling Thrush, Spotted Forktail, black-breasted Kalij Pheasant, red jungle Fowl, Mynas and Turtle Dove. Besides, Hornbills including the Great Indian Hornbill, Florican, Owl, Black Drongo and many other birds are also found.

Reptile Population in Meghalaya includes lizards and snakes, poisonous and non-poisonous. Important ones include Indian Cobra, King Cobra, Coral Snake, Vipers, Python, blind Snake, Copperback, red-necked Kulback, and Green tree Racer.

Some species of different families of mammals namely Primates, the Cats, Civets, Mongooses, Dogs, Bear, Weasels, Bats, Rodents, Elephants, Gaur, Wild Buffalo, Serow, Deer, Pigs and Pangolins are seen roaming in the forests of Meghalaya. In Meghalaya we come across apes as well as Monkeys and Lemurs.

Meghalaya wildlife is full of treasure trove of Nature, with its rich variation of dense endemic and cultivated Flora. Nature, in its plenteous abundance, had blessed Meghalaya with a unique array of plantation, ranging from tropical and sub-tropical to temperate or near temperate. This is due to the diverse physiology, varied and plentiful of rainfall and distinctive climatic and edaphic conditions of the state, within small regions. Biotic factors have also played an important role, at places decisive.

Ecotourism

The State of Meghalaya is a jewel in the crown of the Seven Sister States of North East India. With beautiful landscapes, hundreds of waterfalls and welcoming people, the capital of this State Shillong, has no wonder derived the name as being the ‘Scotland of the East’. Shillong is a city where you get to see a blend of the Modern and the Cultural World and music being the soul of the Khasi Tribal people of Shillong the city has also added to its kitty the title of being called ‘India’s Rock Capital’.

Some of the important national parks and sanctuaries in meghalaya are as follows:

Nokrek National Park

The Nokrek National Park and Biosphere Reserve is about 45 kms from Tura. Nokrek is the highest peak in Garo Hills and home to different species of wild animals including Elephants and Hoolock Gibbons. The Nokrek National Park has been established at Nokrek and it abounds in various wildlife including herds of wild elephants, rare varieties of birds and pheasants, beside rare orchids. The park is also home to a very rare species of citrus-Indica endemic to this place which the locals call memang narang (‘orange of the spirits’). Nokrek is also believed to be the home of Mande Burung (jungle man or ape man) and reported cases of sightings abound in and around the villages of Nokrek.

Selbagre Hoolock Gibbon Reserve

This small area protected by the community is home to the Hoolock Gibbons, the only ape species found in India. The sacred grove in the reserve is the pride of the village and the community. The Garos never kill or hunt the Hoolock Gibbon as it is a traditional belief among them that if a Hoolock Gibbon is killed, a famine or a curse would befall the entire village.

Balpakram National Park

Balpakram is a fertile virgin land. The UN surveyed belts of limestone and coal deposits, along with sea shells fossilized into rocks in Balpakram hill provide immense scope for geological and archeological studies. The animals which can be seen in this national park are elephants, wild buffaloes, gaur, sambar, barking deer, wild boar, slow loris, capped langur, tigers, leopards, clouded leopards and the rare golden cat.

Siju Bird Sanctuary

Siju Bird Sanctuary is located in the hilly regions, it is a perfect destination for people who like watching birds of different species. The sanctuary has been made so that the birds do not feel caged and are not disturbed by any human. The entry of the Siju Bird Sanctuary is beautifully decorated by rock formations. The Siberian ducks also migrate here during the winter months. The lesser or Grey Hornbill is also seen around Siju. One interesting and rare bird is the Peacock Pheasant seen in Siju.

Nongkhyllem Sanctuary

Nongkhyllem Sanctuary of Meghalaya is spread over an area of 29 sq. km. and thereby houses a large number of animals including reptiles, mammals, avian, rodents, etc. The sanctuary still retains the natural look of the forest. Nongkhyllem Sanctuary of Meghalaya is situated in the Ri-Bhoi district near Lailad village. The sanctuary is accessible through road. You can take up the Guwahati Shillong National Highway number 40 and get down at Umling and then along Umling Patharkhmah road take another bus or cab to Lailad village. This sanctuary is one of its kinds as it hosts a wide range of flora and Fauna. The sanctuary supports various species of fauna including those facing the danger of extinction. They include Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian Bison, Himalayan Black Bear, Clouded Leopard, etc.

Meghalaya is a state in northeastern India that is known for its stunning natural beauty, including its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and unique wildlife. The state is home to a number of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, which are popular destinations for ecotourism.

One of the most popular ecotourism destinations in Meghalaya is the Balpakram National Park. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, rhinoceroses, and deer. Visitors can go on guided tours of the park, or simply enjoy the stunning scenery.

Another popular ecotourism destination is the Nokrek National Park. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including the endangered clouded leopard. Visitors can go on guided hikes through the park, or simply relax in the beautiful surroundings.

In addition to its national parks, Meghalaya is also home to a number of wildlife sanctuaries. These sanctuaries are home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Visitors can go on guided tours of the sanctuaries, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of the natural surroundings.

Meghalaya is also home to a number of ecotourism initiatives. These initiatives are designed to promote sustainable tourism and protect the state’s natural Resources. One of the most successful ecotourism initiatives in Meghalaya is the Mawlynnong Ecotourism Project. The project has helped to improve the lives of the people of Mawlynnong, while also protecting the state’s forests and wildlife.

Ecotourism has a number of positive impacts on wildlife and the Environment. Ecotourism can help to raise awareness of the importance of conservation, and it can also provide funding for conservation efforts. Ecotourism can also help to reduce pressure on Natural Resources, as visitors are often more likely to support sustainable practices.

However, ecotourism also has some potential negative impacts. If not managed properly, ecotourism can lead to habitat destruction, pollution, and the disturbance of wildlife. It is important to ensure that ecotourism is developed in a way that minimizes its impact on the environment.

Despite the potential challenges, ecotourism has the potential to be a positive force for conservation in Meghalaya. By promoting sustainable tourism and protecting the state’s natural resources, ecotourism can help to ensure that Meghalaya’s wildlife and environment are preserved for future generations.

The future of ecotourism in Meghalaya is bright. The state has a number of natural advantages, including its stunning scenery and its diverse wildlife. In addition, the state has a number of successful ecotourism initiatives in place. With continued support from the government and the local community, ecotourism has the potential to play a major role in the Economic Development of Meghalaya.

What is ecotourism?

Ecotourism is a form of tourism that involves visiting natural areas to learn about the environment and the people who live there. It is a sustainable form of tourism that helps to protect the environment and the local economy.

What are the benefits of ecotourism?

There are many benefits to ecotourism, including:

It helps to protect the environment by providing economic incentives for people to conserve natural resources.
It helps to promote Sustainable Development by providing jobs and income for local people.
It helps to raise awareness about environmental issues and the importance of conservation.
It can be a fun and rewarding experience for visitors.

What are the challenges of ecotourism?

There are also some challenges associated with ecotourism, including:

It can be difficult to manage ecotourism activities in a way that does not damage the environment.
It can be difficult to ensure that ecotourism benefits local people and does not lead to displacement or exploitation.
It can be difficult to control the impact of ecotourism on wildlife.

What are some examples of ecotourism destinations?

Some examples of ecotourism destinations include:

The Galapagos Islands in Ecuador
The Great Barrier Reef in Australia
The Serengeti National Park in Tanzania
The Amazon rainforest in Brazil
The Himalayas in Nepal

What are some tips for responsible ecotourism?

Here are some tips for responsible ecotourism:

Do your research before you go. Learn about the destination you are visiting and the environmental and social issues that are important there.
Choose a tour operator that is committed to sustainable tourism.
Support local businesses and communities.
Be respectful of the environment and the local culture.
Leave no trace of your visit.

What is the future of ecotourism?

The future of ecotourism is bright. As more people become aware of the importance of conservation, ecotourism is becoming increasingly popular. Ecotourism can play a significant role in protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development.

Which of the following is not a state in India?
(A) Meghalaya
(B) Nagaland
(C) Manipur
(D) Mizoram
The capital of Meghalaya is:
(A) Shillong
(B) Agartala
(C) Imphal
(D) Kohima
The Official Language of Meghalaya is:
(A) English
(B) Khasi
(C) Garo
(D) Jaintia
The Population of Meghalaya is:
(A) 3,116,000
(B) 3,216,000
(C) 3,316,000
(D) 3,416,000
The Literacy rate of Meghalaya is:
(A) 75%
(B) 80%
(C) 85%
(D) 90%
The main religion of Meghalaya is:
(A) Christianity
(B) Hinduism-2/”>Hinduism
(C) Islam
(D) Buddhism-2/”>Buddhism
The main crops of Meghalaya are:
(A) Rice, maize, and wheat
(B) Tea, coffee, and rubber
(C) Jute, sugarcane, and Cotton
(D) Oilseeds, pulses, and vegetables
The main industries of Meghalaya are:
(A) Tea, tourism, and mining
(B) Handloom, handicrafts, and sericulture
(C) Cement, steel, and power
(D) Automobile, electronics, and Software
The main tourist attractions of Meghalaya are:
(A) The Mawphlang Sacred Forest, the Nokrek National Park, and the Balpakram National Park
(B) The Cherrapunji Falls, the Mawsynram Falls, and the Umiam Lake
(C) The Living Root Bridges, the Dawki River Cruise, and the Elephant Falls
(D) The Mawlynnong Village, the Nongriat Village, and the Sohra Village
The best time to visit Meghalaya is:
(A) From October to March
(B) From April to June
(C) From July to September
(D) From October to December

Answers:
1. (D)
2. (A)
3. (A)
4. (C)
5. (B)
6. (A)
7. (B)
8. (A)
9. (A)
10. (A)