Category: Eco Park

An expert team from Auroville, joined by city-based wildlife enthusiasts and members of Ramco Community Services, recently conducted a comprehensive survey of the flora and fauna at Sanjeevi Hills. This latest effort in an ongoing series aims to deepen the understanding of the hillock’s existing biodiversity and ecological patterns.

The study focused on birds, insects, and amphibians, as well as native, invasive, and herbal species of plants and trees. Among the noteworthy findings was the sighting of the Malabar Toad (Firouzophrynus hololius), a species previously known only from the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. Its appearance here marks the first sighting in the Western Ghats outside Chinnar, Kerala, approximately 100 km away.
The team also observed traces of old stream paths and sites that previously held ponds across the hillock, offering insights into the area’s hydrological history.

These well-documented findings will play a crucial role in shaping measures to rejuvenate the biodiversity and ecological vitality of Sanjeevi Hills, creating a supportive environment for diverse fauna and flourishing native flora.