Cauvery South Wildlife Sanctuary

Cauvery South Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri districts of Tamil Nadu, was officially notified in 2022 and covers an area of about 686 square kilometers.

The sanctuary is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including 35 species of mammals such as elephants and four-horned antelopes, 238 species of birds, as well as unique riverine species like Leith’s soft-shelled turtles, smooth-coated otters, and marsh crocodiles. It connects with Cauvery North Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu and Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka, creating a large, continuous protected area that supports important elephant corridors and helps conserve tiger habitats in the region.

The sanctuary’s ecosystem is closely tied to the Cauvery River basin, which sustains species that rely on the riverine forest environment. This area also plays a critical role in managing human-wildlife conflicts and preserving the natural habitats crucial for the survival of endangered species. The sanctuary enhances biodiversity conservation and promotes the ecological health of the Cauvery basin.