Location and Landscape
Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is located in the Palakkad and Thrissur districts of Kerala, within the Southern Western Ghats. It forms part of the Nelliampathy–Anamalai landscape, a critical biodiversity zone shared with Tamil Nadu.
Legal Status
- Declared a Tiger Reserve in 2009 under Project Tiger
- Recognised as a well-preserved ecological habitat with minimal disturbance
Key Ecological Features
- Lies within a high biodiversity hotspot (Western Ghats)
- Characterised by tropical evergreen and moist deciduous forests
- Known for its intact ecosystem and strong conservation practices
Unique Feature
- Home to the world’s first scientifically managed teak plantation
- Contains the Kannimara Teak, one of the largest and oldest teak trees in the world
River System
The reserve is drained by important river systems:
- Parambikulam River
- Sholayar River
- Thekkady River
These rivers support rich aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity.
Biodiversity Highlights
The reserve supports diverse species across trophic levels:
Birds
- Rufous-bellied hawk-eagle
- Indian grey hornbill
- Great Indian hornbill
- Ceylon frogmouth
Butterflies
- Southern birdwing (India’s second-largest butterfly)
- Five-bar swordtail
- Spot swordtail
- Nilgiri tiger
Mammals and Others
- Leopard
- Lion-tailed macaque (endangered)
- Smooth-coated otter
Conservation Significance
- Important habitat for endemic and endangered species of the Western Ghats
- Functions as a key ecological corridor in the Anamalai landscape
- Demonstrates effective forest management and biodiversity conservation
Conclusion
Parambikulam Tiger Reserve stands out as a model of ecological preservation in the Western Ghats, combining biodiversity richness, scientific forest management, and strategic landscape connectivity.
