Plant Resource Utilisation by Avifauna in Sitamata Sanctuary, India

Though brought under the umbrella of Protected Area Network, Sitamata WLS is still as disturbed as other forest areas are because of extreme human and livestock pressure and has resulted into the degradation to a considerable extent. Very few pockets, especially the stretch between Bhagi baori, Sitabari, Sitamata temple up to Keli area are still having some old and undisturbed forest stands. These areas still harbour an impressive array of not only rare and threatened plant diversity but also unique rare members of avian fauna. In addition the adjoining areas of Sitamata WLS in Pratapgarh district, especially some of the landscape comprising mosaic of grasslands and agriculture areas are remaining habitats of critically endangered Lesser Florican. Thus there is an urgent need to halt this process of degradation not only in the sanctuary but also its adjacent areas through mass awareness, sensitization, ecodevelopment and responsible nature tourism activities