Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary
A Hidden Gem in Southern Bhutan
Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary
The smallest and most biodiverse protected area in Bhutan is Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary, which is tucked away in the country’s southern regions. Phibsoo is smaller than other conservation areas in Bhutan, yet it has special qualities that make it stand out.
A Glimpse into Phibsoo’s Uniqueness
Plans to introduce Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary to the world of tourism have been brewing, with a soft opening initially slated for December 17, 2023. These plans, however, are momentarily on hold, aligning with the broader vision of integrating the sanctuary into the Gelephu Mindfulness City project. This pause allows for necessary adjustments, such as realigning a 5 km stretch of the safari road and clearing surrounding vegetation for better access.
What makes Phibsoo truly stand out, as highlighted by WWF Bhutan, are its exclusive inhabitants—the Spotted Deer and the natural Sal forests, both rarities within the country. The sanctuary also serves as a haven for other significant tropical species, including elephants, gaurs, and the golden langur.
Six Fascinating Insights into Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Exclusive Home to the Spotted Deer
Phibsoo provides a sanctuary for the Spotted Deer, an animal cherished for its distinctive spotted coat. This sanctuary represents the easternmost limit of the deer’s habitat, offering a unique glimpse into the species’ existence within Bhutan’s grasslands.
2. The Natural Sal and Agar Haven
This sanctuary is the only place in Bhutan where natural Sal forests thrive, a testament to the area’s rich biodiversity. Moreover, Phibsoo also boasts natural stands of Agar wood, adding to its conservation value.
3. A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Hosting four species of Hornbill, Phibsoo is a bird lover’s dream. Its rich avian diversity provides birdwatchers with ample opportunities to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
4. Unique Conservation Management
Phibsoo’s approach to wildlife management is distinctive, with outpost stations instead of beat stations, reflecting its strategic importance and the challenges of conservation in such a biodiverse area.
5. Bhutan’s Hottest Spot
Lying at an elevation of just 65-72 meters above sea level, Phibsoo is among Bhutan’s hottest and lowest points—a stark contrast to the country’s predominantly mountainous terrain.
6. A Sanctuary of New Discoveries
Thanks to the diligent efforts of birders and rangers, Phibsoo has been the site of several new bird species records for Bhutan, highlighting its importance as a hotspot for avian biodiversity.
While the anticipation for Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary’s opening to tourism continues, its potential role in the larger context of Bhutan’s environmental conservation and mindfulness initiatives remains significant. The sanctuary not only underscores the importance of preserving natural habitats but also offers a promising glimpse into the future of eco-tourism and conservation efforts in Bhutan.
Credit to Tashi Phuntsho for shedding light on this captivating sanctuary, Phibsoo continues to intrigue and inspire those passionate about nature and conservation.
Courtesy :
https://www.facebook.com/PhibsooWS
Leave a Reply