Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary

Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary, the only one of its kind in the district, is home to a wide array of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is located 45 kms east of Kannur and is often frequented by Nature lovers. It sprawls over an area of 55 sq. kms on the western slopes of the Western Ghats. The Sanctuary, established in 1984, is administered by the Wayanad division and headquartered at Iritty.

The landscape of Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary shows elevations ranging from 50 meters to 1145 meters. At more than 1000 metres above sea level, Katti Betta stands as the highest peak in this region. The sanctuary is enriched by several streams and rivers including River Aralam.

Flora and fauna

The various types of forests found in the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary include tropical evergreen, tropical semi-evergreen, south Indian moist deciduous, and hilltop evergreen forests and plantations. Animals that are generally found in the Western Ghats such as Sambar deer, Elephant, Lion-tailed Macaque, Boar, the Common Langur, wild dog, the Common Otter and the Malabar Giant Squirrel can be spotted here also. Tiger and Bison are also seen here occasionally.

About 23 species of mammals and more than 150 species of birds are found here. Eight of the bird species come under the group of globally threatened species of birds. The rare and endangered birds here include, among others, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Blue-winged Parakeet, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Great Pied Hornbill and Ceylon Frogmouth. 

A survey conducted in the Sanctuary spotted Oriental Darter, Hen Harrier, a migrant bird from Europe and Central Asia, Speckled piculet, Forest Eagle-Owl which preys on small mammals, and Tawny Eagle as well.

The Sanctuary also offers exciting trekking opportunities for adventure lovers.