Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary

Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh near the village of Rollapadu, covers an area of about 6.14 square kilometers. Established in 1988, it is primarily known as a critical habitat for the endangered Great Indian Bustard and the Lesser Florican, making it the only sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh dedicated to conserving these species.

The sanctuary features dry, rolling grasslands situated between the Nallamalai and Erramalai hill ranges of the Eastern Ghats, with a hot and dry climate and erratic rainfall. The flora mainly comprises various grass species like Aristida funiculata and Chrysopogon fulvus, along with thorny bushes and trees such as Cassia fistula and Butea monosperma.

The sanctuary's fauna includes blackbucks, Indian wolves, jackals, Indian foxes, bonnet macaques, jungle cats, sloth bears, and reptiles like Russell’s viper and Indian cobra. It also hosts more than 130 bird species, including migratory birds and raptors such as harriers, kites, and short-toed snake eagles. Rollapadu's grassland ecosystem offers a unique blend of wildlife and scenic landscapes reminiscent of African savannahs, making it a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers.

The sanctuary emphasizes community involvement for the protection of endangered species and supports a balance between wildlife conservation and local agriculture around its borders. Visitors can experience a peaceful natural environment that supports diverse biodiversity.