Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, located about 50kms east
of Thiruvananthapuram is nestled in the western slope of southern region
of the Western Ghats in Nedumangad. Sprawl over an area of 53sq.km with
hillocks, forests and eucalyptus plantations, the place is a haven for
wildlife enthusiasts and ornithologists. The sanctuary is home to various
species of mammals, birds, reptiles, fishes and several rare, endemic
and threatened plants. Elephant, Gaur, Sambar deer, Lion Tailed Macaque,
Nilgiri Langur, Nilgiri Marten, Slender Loris, Sloth Bear, Leopard Cat
etc are some among the animals found here. Birdlife includes the endemics
like Painted bush quail, Black rumped flameback, Three toed kingfisher,
Malabar Grey Hornbill, Whitebellied Treepie, Small Sunbird, etc.
Peppara was declared as a wildlife sanctuary consequent to the construction
of a dam at Peppara, in order to cater to the needs of drinking water
purposes of Thiruvananthapuram and suburban areas. Out of the 53sq.km
of the sanctuary area, 5.82sq.km is the water spread area of the reservoir.
The reservoir formed by the Peppara Dam is the major source of water for
the animals and habitat for several water birds.
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Kerala 
