Why in the News?

Recently, in the Bargarh area of Odisha's Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, two rare and elusive wild dogs, known as Dholes, have been spotted.

About Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary:

• Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is Located between the Hirakud Dam (on the Mahanadi River)  and the Reservoir in Odisha.
• It was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1985.
• It's also famous because the freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai used 'Barapathara' within the sanctuary as his base during his struggle against the British.
• It covers an area of 347 square kilometres and is home to a variety of wildlife, including Indian Bison, Wild Boars, Sambhar, and Peacocks.
• The dry deciduous forest attracts many migratory birds during the winter season.
• The sanctuary also houses the endangered four-horned antelope, known as Chousingha.
• Additionally, it's internationally significant due to its notable population of Leopards, Bisons, and Chousingha.