Protect Moyar valley, the home of critically endangered Gyps vulture

• Moyar valley or Maayar (invisible river) valley extends from Gudalur through the core area of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve.
• This entire stretch of nearly 85 km is a wildlife haven and important biome in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, sheltering several vital species like tiger and elephant and the critically endangered Gyps vulture.
• It is the only region in peninsular India where you have the biggest nesting colony of Gyps vultures in the wild.

Mudumalai: A vital wildlife corridor in India

• Mudumalai stretches through a critical area within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
• This region is home to endangered species like tigers, elephants, and Gyps vultures (the largest nesting colony in peninsular India).
• The Moyar Valley within Mudumalai provides a natural food source for scavengers like vultures.
• This is because prey animals here die from natural causes and lack harmful chemicals.

Key details about Mudumalai Tiger Reserve:

• Located in Tamil Nadu, at the meeting point of three states (Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala).
• Part of the Western Ghats mountain range.
• Shares borders with several protected areas, forming a crucial wildlife corridor.

Prelims Takeaway

• Mudumalai Tiger Reserve
• Moyar Valley