The Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary

The Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary, located in western Sarpang District and southeastern Dagana District of Bhutan, is a biodiversity hotspot despite its relatively small size of 268.93 square kilometers. Situated along the border with West Bengal, India, the sanctuary forms a crucial link in Bhutan’s conservation efforts, serving as a biological corridor connecting Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park and Royal Manas National Park. This connectivity enhances the movement of wildlife across different habitats and facilitates genetic exchange among species.

The sanctuary encompasses diverse ecosystems characterized by elevations ranging from 200 meters to 1,600 meters above sea level. This variation in altitude supports a rich diversity of flora and fauna. The lower elevations are dominated by subtropical forests, while higher altitudes feature temperate forests, providing habitats for a wide range of plant species, including orchids, rhododendrons, and various tree species like oak and pine.

In terms of fauna, Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including endangered species such as the Asian elephant, Bengal tiger, clouded leopard, and Indian bison (gaur). Other notable species found here include deer, wild boar, langur monkeys, and a variety of bird species. The sanctuary also plays a crucial role in the conservation of freshwater fish species in the rivers that border its boundaries.

Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary is not only a sanctuary for wildlife but also for the preservation of Bhutan’s natural heritage and biodiversity. Through ongoing conservation efforts and habitat restoration initiatives, the sanctuary continues to recover from past disturbances and strives to maintain its ecological integrity and importance within Bhutan’s protected area network.