Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary, Nature reserve in Madikeri, India.
Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary is a nature reserve in the Western Ghats with dense forests and multiple ecological zones across its area. The landscape shifts between hillside woodlands, open grasslands, and streams that together create diverse habitats for wildlife.
The sanctuary was established in 1987 by the Karnataka Forest Department to protect this important forest region and its animal populations. Its creation helped safeguard an already threatened ecosystem in the Western Ghats from further loss.
The sanctuary sits at the source of the Kaveri River, which holds spiritual meaning for nearby communities who rely on its waters. Visitors notice how locals connect to this place as the river's birthplace and recognize its importance for life downstream.
The best access to the reserve is through Madikeri city, with guided tours best done during daylight hours. Heavy monsoon rains make visiting more difficult and are generally not recommended during that season.
The area is home to rare animal species like the stripe-necked mongoose, mouse deer, and fairy bluebird that are protected here. These animals have become scarce in the wider region and find one of their last safe havens within this reserve.
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