Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Sanctuary

Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Sanctuary

The Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary (GSWS), also known as Srivilliputtur Wildlife Sanctuary, was established in 1988 to protect the vulnerable grizzled giant squirrel (Ratufa macrora). Occupying an area of 485.2 km2, it is bordered on the southwest by the Periyar Tiger Reserve and is one of the best preserved forests south of the Palghat Gap.

The sanctuary covers 485 square kilometers (187 sq mi) in western Tamil Nadu, South India in the eastern water-shed of the Western Ghats and consists of high hills and valleys, with a number of peaks reaching up to 1,800 metres (5,900 ft).

It is located by the eastern water shed of South India in the Western Ghats. The sanctuary posses a number of high hills, many valleys and also large numbers of peak, with a maximum height of 1,800 meters.

The Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary also known as Srivilliputtur Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the endangered, grizzled giant squirrel Ratufa macrora.

The tributaries of the river Vaipaar and few rivulets draining into the river Gundar River are running through the sanctuary which provides water in the habitat for vegetation and wildlife.

There are two dams viz. Pilavakkal and Koilar situated along the foothills of the sanctuary which are the best places to see water birds and other wildlife. There is one rest house situated inside the sanctuary in Mudaliar Oothu, one of the best places to see the Nilgiri Tahr.

Besides Grizzled Giant Squirrel, the sanctuary is a habitat for endangered species such as tiger, leopard, Nilgiri Tahr and Lion-tailed Macaque. There are no roads, so the sanctuary can only be visited on foot and guides are available on request from the Sanctuary office to accompany tourists on treks.

The climate is generally hot and dry in the foothills. Hot tropical climate prevails in the upper elevations. The average annual rainfall ranges from 800- 2300 mm.

The sanctuary can be visited throughout the year.

The forest officials also take care of all tourists' requirements and provide them with comfortable and affordable accommodation either at the Forest Rest House at Mudungiar, Pudupatti, Mudaliaroothu or at the PWD Rest House at Srivilliputhur and also provides transportation.

The craggy mountains, the dense forests, the exciting wildlife, the opportunities to trek and the escape into the lap of nature, make Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary an attractive destination!