Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary Tamil Nadu

The sanctuary was declared in 1988–1989 and covers around 485 sq. km. It lies in the Virudhunagar–Madurai region and forms part of the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats. The area includes evergreen forests, deciduous forests, grasslands, and scrub habitats, supporting a wide variety of wildlife including elephants, leopards, Nilgiri tahr, and lion-tailed macaque.

It is one of the key conservation zones in Tamil Nadu, especially important for protecting arboreal species like the grizzled giant squirrel.

Point of Attractions

• Habitat of the endangered Grizzled Giant Squirrel
• Dense Western Ghats forests with evergreen and deciduous zones
• Scenic hills, valleys, and riverine landscapes
• High biodiversity hotspot with rare mammals and birds
• Birdwatching opportunities with Western Ghats endemic species
• Presence of elephants, leopards, Nilgiri tahr, and lion-tailed macaque
• Butterflies, reptiles, and amphibians diversity
• Medicinal Plant Conservation Area at Thaniparai

Facilities

• Forest check posts at entry points
• Guided trekking with forest department permission
• Basic forest rest houses at select locations
• Parking available near entry/forest limits
• Interpretation and information support from forest officials
• Limited visitor amenities (eco-tourism focused, not commercialized)
• Strict conservation zone with restricted access inside core forest areas

Best in the Zoo (Key Wildlife Highlights)

This is a wildlife sanctuary (not a zoo), but its “best sightings” include:

• Grizzled Giant Squirrel (flagship species)
• Elephant herds in forest corridors
• Leopard sightings in deeper forest zones
• Nilgiri Tahr in higher elevations
• Lion-tailed Macaque in evergreen patches
• Sloth Bear and Sambar Deer in forest interiors
• Rare birds like Great Pied Hornbill and Nilgiri Flycatcher
• Over 200+ bird species and rich butterfly diversity