Question

Which of the following best describes a wildlife sanctuary?

• A. A protected area of habitat for fauna where selected human operations, that do not interfere with the well-being of the animals, are allowed
• B. A multipurpose protected area of habitat in which man is an integral part of the system
• C. An area strictly reserved for the betterment of wildlife, where no human manipulation is allowed
• D. Forest tracts, around places of worship, which are held in high esteem

Answer 1

The correct option is A A protected area of habitat for fauna where selected human operations, that do not interfere with the well-being of the animals, are allowed

In situ conservation involves conserving and protecting organisms in their natural habitat. It includes wildlife sanctuaries, sacred groves, biosphere reserves and national parks.

Wildlife sanctuaries are protected areas with rich biodiversity of fauna (animals) that help in conservation and protection of wild animals in their natural habitats. Hunting, poaching (illegal killing and capturing of animals) and commercial exploitation of animals are strictly prohibited in this area. Minor human activities such as collection of forest products such as timber, food, etc., are permitted as long as these do not have any negative impacts on the life and safety of the animals. Examples include the Manas wildlife sanctuary, Assam. Thus option a is the correct answer.

Figure : Manas wildlife sanctuary, Assam

A biosphere reserve is a multipurpose protected area of habitat in which man is an integral part of the system. Examples include Sunderban. So option b is biosphere reserve.

Figure : Sunderban

A national park is an area strictly reserved for the betterment of wildlife, where no human manipulation is allowed. Examples include Gir national park. So option c is a national park.

Figure : Gir national park

Sacred groves are the forest tracts around places of worship which are held in high esteem by the local communities. Examples include Chandar and Bastar areas of Madhya Pradesh. So option d is sacred grove.