Introduction: An Ancient Sal Forest of Bhutan
The Extraordinary Extols of Ancient Sal forests of Bhutan have forever held the attention of nature-lovers and adventurers alike, with their majestic beauty and vast array of rare species. Dating back to the times of the Himalayas and the ancient Buddhist kingdoms of the region, the Sal forests of Bhutan have long been a source of awe and admiration, making them one of the world’s natural wonders.
The vast expanse of Sal forest is mainly populated by some of the most endemic and endangered species in the world, such as Clouded leopards, red pandas, and snow leopards – making the Sal forest one of Bhutan’s most protected resources. With an area of over 25,000 hectares in total, these forests house some of the most pristine and undisturbed ecosystems on the planet.
Apart from being one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on earth, Sal forests of Bhutan are also a haven for some of the most exotic and culturally significant species of flora and fauna. It is here that some of the world’s most endangered animals find their sanctuary, making it a priority area for conservationists around the world. The Bhutanese people revere their forests and have long understood their value to their culture and livelihoods.
Geographical Layout and Physical Characteristics
The Bhutanese Sal forests are found mainly in the southern parts of the country, across the districts of Chirung, Mongar, Sarpang, and Zhemgang. They can be divided into two broad geographical regions – the Eastern Sal forests and the Western Sal forests. While the Eastern Sal forests consists of coniferous and deciduous trees, the Western sal forests have a predominance of evergreen species, including oaks, Sal, and pine trees.
The Sal forests of Bhutan can also be divided into two distinct zones – Lower and Higher, with the former occupying an area of 12,000 hectares, while the latter spans over 13,000 hectares. The Lower Sal Forest lies in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, at altitudes between 500 and 800 meters, while the Higher Sal forest is located at altitudes between 3300 and 3500 meters.
The Lower Sal forests are mostly composed of dense mixed and evergreen forest, with an abundance of Sal trees. This zone is home to several varieties of fauna, including Himalayan black bears, Asian elephants, sloth bears, sambars, and wild buffalo. The Higher Sal forests, on the other hand, are largely made up of coniferous trees, such as cedar, larch, and pine, with an abundance of lichens and mosses. The Higher Sal forests are also home to a variety of endangered mammals, such as snow leopards and red pandas.
Biodiversity and Endangered Species
The Sal forests of Bhutan are amongst some of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world. The forests are home to a variety of dry evergreen and moister deciduous forest species, making them a haven for a wide array of plants and animals. The forests are also the natural habitat of some of the world’s most rare and endangered species.
Apart from the Mammals, the Sal forests of Bhutan are home to a variety of birds, reptiles and amphibians, as well as a range of invertebrates. It is also home to a range of rare plants, such as orchids, rhododendrons, and ferns.
The Sal forests of Bhutan provide a safe haven for some of the world’s most endangered animals, such as the Clouded leopard, red panda, and snow leopard. The Clouded leopard is the most endangered species in the world and is found only in the Sal forests of Bhutan. Other endangered species, like the red panda, musk deer, and tragopan pheasant, also find refuge in the Sal forests of Bhutan.
In addition to being home to a vast array of species, the Sal forests of Bhutan are also an important source of timber and other resources. The locals of Bhutan have for centuries relied on these forests for timber, fuel, food, medicinal plants, and fodder, reinforcing their significance in the country’s socio-economic and cultural context.
Protection of Sal Forests
In order to protect the rich biodiversity of the Sal forests, the government of Bhutan has implemented a series of measures, such as the creation of national parks, wild life sanctuaries, and community forest reserves. These measures have largely been successful in preserving the Sal forests and their biodiversity.
In addition, the Bhutanese people have a deep respect for the forests and their conservation. They have developed a culture of sustainable forest management and have over the centuries maintained the ecological balance of the Sal forests through sustainable harvesting practices.
These measures have enabled the Sal forests to remain untouched and undisturbed, preserving their unique and extraordinary diversity.
Conclusion
The Ancient Sal forests of Bhutan are a unique source of biodiverse species and are an extraordinary part of Bhutan’s rich natural heritage. Protected by various measures and cultural practices, these Sal forests have managed to remain pristine and intact, protecting some of the world’s most endangered species in the process. It is through this protection and sustainable management that the Sal forests of Bhutan have been able to survive and remain so extraordinary.
The Extraordinary Extols of Ancient Sal forests of Bhutan will continue to inspire and amaze generations to come, ensuring that their extraordinary beauty and diversity remain for many years to come.