23rd February 2020
(All images copyright 2020 Mirza Ali Usman Baig, text written in this article is the author's Research)
The breathtaking Mehrano Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Khairpur District of Sindh province in Pakistan. This exceptional sanctuary is a meticulously preserved riverine forest that has been safeguarded by the Talpur Mir royal family of Khairpur Princely State, with the support of the Sindh wildlife department. Encompassing agricultural land, forests, and hunting areas, Mehrano is a haven for diverse flora and fauna.
Within the sanctuary, one can find a remarkable array of approximately 4,000 big game animals, including majestic species like blackbuck, Indian gazelle, hog deer, and wild boar. The forest's captivating lake attracts both resident and migratory birds, making it a delightful spot to witness avian diversity from Siberia and Europe. Moreover, there is a designated area within the sanctuary where tourists can observe the fascinating behavior of wild boars.
The head of the royal house, Mir Ali Murad Khan Talpur II, has enforced a strict ban on hunting, except for jackals, in order to preserve the sanctuary's delicate balance. However, an annual culling of wild boars is carried out to prevent them from posing a threat to nearby farmers and their families when their population becomes too large for the forest to sustain. The Mehrano reserve shares its borders with the mesmerizing Cholistan desert, further adding to its allure as a natural treasure.
