Context:

• With the onset of summer, the hilly terrains of Valparai’s ghat section have become dry as can be seen from the long stretches of wilted grass, withered plants, shrubs and trees.

Other Facts:

• The soaring temperature has affected the flora and fauna alike in the ghat section, a habitat of the Nilgiri tahr in the Anamalai Tiger Reserve.
• It has resulted in poor sightings of animals such as macaques that are commonly seen on the sides of the road.
• Several species of birds, macaques, Nilgiris tahr, Malabar giant squirrel, leopard, wild boars, bear, reptile and rodents visit this year.
• The population of lion-tailed macaques, another major wildlife attraction in Valparai, is safe from the dry spell as their habitat is above Attakatti.

Forest fire

• Though dry leaves and grass have made the stretch vulnerable to forest fire, the Forest Department has taken preventive steps. Fire lines have been made in vulnerable areas.

Source:TH