The Karnataka forest department is developing a proposal to establish the state’s first striped hyena sanctuary in Belagavi. This would be the first sanctuary dedicated primarily to hyenas in India, where they are usually co-protected with species like wolves and blackbucks. The proposed sanctuary will cover around 120 sq km of reserve forest on the border of Belagavi and Gokak taluks.
Hyenas play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of forests and grasslands but are often misunderstood and killed due to rural myths. With a shrinking habitat and declining prey, their population in Karnataka is under threat. Experts note that areas like Bagalkot, Dharwad, Tumakuru, and Belagavi are among the last safe zones for hyenas in the state. Fragmented habitats and the proximity of national highways further endanger these apex scavengers.
Conservationists emphasize that hyenas, often overlooked in favor of flagship species, require urgent protection to prevent human-animal conflicts. Previous efforts in Koppal failed, but Belagavi officials hope this new initiative will succeed in providing much-needed protection for the species.
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