Grizzled Giant Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary

Location

The wildlife sanctuary lies in the Virudhunagar & Madurai (Srivilliputhur / Rajapalayam) region of Tamil Nadu. Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Tamil Nadu.

History

Notified in December 1989 under the Wildlife Protection Act to conserve the last canopy strongholds of the Grizzled Squirrel along the Palani and Varushanad hills; declared Tamil Nadu’s 5th Tiger Reserve (Srivilliputhur-Megamalai) in 2021.

Landscape, Geography & Habitat

Covering an exact area of 485.20 sq km, the sanctuary’s terrain features Western Ghats east-facing hill slopes, tropical dry evergreen forest, riverine canopy, and high altitude montane shola.

Flora

Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Albizia amara, Chloroxylon swietenia, Santalum album (Sandalwood), Ficus species (Wild Figs), Tamarindus indica, Bamboo, and Acacia chundra..

Fauna

The sanctuary harbors a diverse array of mammalian, reptilian, and avian wildlife:

• Primary Mammals: Grizzled Giant Squirrel (Ratufa macroura – flagship endemic species!), Asian Elephant, Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, Gaur (Indian Bison), Nilgiri Tahr, Lion-tailed Macaque, Sloth Bear, Flying Squirrel.
• Predators & Carnivores: Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, Wild Dog (Dhole), Sloth Bear, Jungle Cat.
• Herbivores & Ungulates: Grizzled Giant Squirrel, Asian Elephant, Gaur (Bison), Nilgiri Tahr, Sambar Deer, Barking Deer.
• Reptiles & Amphibians: King Cobra, Indian Python, Malabar Pit Viper, Monitor Lizard, Star Tortoise.

Other Wild Animals & Avifauna

• Resident Woodland Birds: Great Indian Hornbill, Malabar Grey Hornbill, White-bellied Treepie, Indian Peafowl, Paradise Flycatcher, Emerald Dove.
• Raptors & Owls: Crested Serpent Eagle, Black Eagle, Rufous-bellied Eagle, Shaheen Falcon.
• Migratory Species: Indian Pitta, Grey Wagtail, Chestnut-winged Cuckoo, Paradise Flycatcher.

Rivers & Water Bodies

The lifeline of Grizzled Giant Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary is sustained by: Gundar River, Arjuna River, Vaigai River tributaries, and Shenbaga Thoppu stream.

Other Attractions

Major nearby tourist attractions and historic viewpoints include: Srivilliputhur Andal Temple (Tamil Nadu State Emblem 15 km), Shenbaga Thoppu Waterfalls (10 km), Ayyanar Falls Rajapalayam (25 km).

Weather & Climate

Subtropical climate with pleasant winters (12°C to 26°C) and warm summers (24°C to 38°C).

How to Reach

• Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport (IXM) – 75 km / Tuticorin Airport (TCR) – 110 km
• Nearest Railway Station: Srivilliputhur Railway Station (SVPR) – 15 km / Rajapalayam Junction (RJPM) – 20 km / Madurai Junction – 75 km
• Road Connectivity: Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Tamil Nadu.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal season for visiting Grizzled Giant Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to April.

Accommodation

Forest Rest Houses and State Tourism eco-lodges near Virudhunagar & Madurai (Srivilliputhur / Rajapalayam).. Advance booking through official portals is recommended.

Conservation Highlights

Key conservation zone protecting native wildlife corridors and forest watersheds in Tamil Nadu.

Visitor Tips

Obtain necessary entry permits from the local forest division office prior to visiting.

Did You Know?

• Official protected Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu notified under Indian wildlife conservation acts.
• Preserves key wildlife species including Grizzled Giant Squirrel (Ratufa macroura – flagship endemic species!) and native avifauna.
• Covers an exact area of 485.20 sq km along the Gundar River watershed.