The sanctuary takes its name from the river Bhadra, its lifeline. Popularly known as Muthodi Wildlife Sanctuary, after the village on its periphery, it is a great place to sight the ferocious tiger, observe the Indian bison, hear the strange calls of the striped hyena, and see the rare flying lizard glide amidst the huge trees. The southern part of the sanctuary is rich in birds, butterflies and reptiles. More than 250 species of bird life, many of which are endemic to the Western Ghats, are spotted here.
Best season: October to February.
Location and Area: Chikmagalur and Shimoga Districts; 492.46 sq. km.
Flora and Fauna: Moist and dry deciduous forests with patches of shoal-grassland habitat are found at the higher altitudes.
Mammals: The elephant, gaur, tiger, panther, sambar, spotted deer, mouse deer, barking deer, sloth bear, wild boar, wild dog, mongoose, porcupine, jackal, and the common langur are some of the mammals found here.
Birds: More than 250 birds have been identified. The ruby-throated bulbul, shama, Malabar whistling thrush, four species of hornbill, racquet-tailed drongo, and the paradise flycatcher are some of them.
Reptiles: Crocodiles and various kinds of snakes can be found here.
