Ecological Restoration of Degraded Wildlife Habitat

Located within the rain-shadow region of the Bandipur Tiger Reserve, this 60 Acre restoration initiative seeks to heal a degraded stretch of the South Deccan Plateau’s dry deciduous forests and semi-arid savanna grasslands. The site had lost much of its native character due to soil erosion, invasive species and the cumulative impacts of past anthropogenic and geo-climatic factors.

The restoration process focuses on reviving a fragmented secondary stream and developing a downstream wetland complex to enhance the hydrological connectivity of the Hirekere wetland. A mosaic of habitats including semi-arid grasslands, scrublands, tree savannas, and riparian groves is being re-established to support a diverse range of flora and fauna. The project engages 20+ members of local Adivasi communities, including the Soliga and Kaadu Kuruba tribes, who play a central role in Lantana C and Seena S (Invasive Alien Species) and resource stewardship. The deep ecological understanding of the landscape is integrated into the process ensuring a contextually grounded and resilient approach. The site also serves as a living demonstration for climate adaptation in protected areas, IAS management, and future-ready wildlife habitats. Restoration actions include hydrological interventions such as hybrid bunds and wetland complexes, management of Invasive Alien Species (IAS), and Assisted Natural Regeneration (ANR) using locally sourced seeds of native species from reference sites. Early indicators including the regeneration of native grasses, fungi and increased movement of wildlife and birdlife around the wetland complex which reflect the landscape’s gradual ecological recovery.

Rooted in the principles of rewilding and community stewardship, the project integrates nature-based solutions, landscape design and traditional knowledge to restore ecological balance within one of India’s most biodiverse regions, the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the country’s first UNESCO-designated Man and the Biosphere site.