MP: Madhav National Park in Shivpuri set to become state’s 9th tiger reserve, discover its unique and enchanting features

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has said that the state will soon have a new tiger reserve. Madhav National Park in Shivpuri is set to become the state’s 9th tiger reserve, further enhancing wildlife conservation efforts in the Chambal region. Madhya Pradesh continues to set new benchmarks in wildlife conservation, CM said. 

Madhav National Park is a fascinating mix of natural splendours of history and architectural wonders. Madhav National Park is situated in the northern part of Madhya Pradesh in Shivpuri District, very close to the Shivpuri township This was notified as a National Park in the year 1958.

Lakes are rich in aquatic biodiversity

Madhav National Park is unique in having both lake, meadow (open grassland) and forest ecosystems. Sakhya Sagar and Madhav Sagar are the two major lakes in the southern part of the park, providing the aquatic biodiversity and lifeline for the terrestrial species. 

These lakes not only add to the natural beauty of the area, but also provide a permanent source of water to the wildlife, and a fine wetland habitat to the aquatic fauna including thousands of migratory waterfowls. 

The lakes are very rich in fish life and many species including Rohu, Katla, Narain etc. The two lakes have a good number of crocodile and they can often be seen basking in the sun during the winter.

Marsh Crocodiles are in abundance in Sakhya Sagar lake. Due to this, the lake looks like a "Crocodile Safari" and attracts special attention of tourists. Madikhera dam is situated in the North Western part of the Park.

Chital and Sambhar are common herbivores

Chital or Spotted deer, Nilgai and Chinkara are the most common deer species found in the park. Chital are frequently seen near the areas around the two lakes.

Sambhar deer prefer the eastern part of the park which is hilly with steep slopes and relatively dense forest cover. They are also found in the northern areas of the park which are hilly and have dense forests. Barking deer are rare. Four-horned Antelope or the Chowsingha can be seen scattered around the park. Wild pigs are mostly seen along the banks of the Sakhya Sagar lake.

Tigers have been reintroduced recently

The Leopard is the most common carnivore in the area although Tigers, which used to visit the area infrequently earlier, have been reintroduced recently.

Other carnivores include the Wild Dog which are occasionally sighted along with Wolf, Jackal and the Hyena. The Jackal and Hyena are very common. 

The smaller fauna includes the Jungle Cat, Palm Civet, Small Indian Civet, Otter, Fox, Porcupine, Monitor lizard, Blacknaped Hare etc.

229 species of birds have been listed 

Over 229 species of birds have been listed in the area. A large number of migratory birds visit the area during the winter. These include Demoiselle cranes, Spotbill Pelicans, Spoonbills, Shovellers, Natka, Barheaded Geese, Brahminy Duck, etc.

Cobra and Common Krait are the common poisonous snakes. The Indian Python is occasionally seen. Monitor lizards are frequently sighted.