Bahraich: A herd of more than six rhinoceroses has been spotted near Bharthapur village in the Katarniaghat Wildlife Division, bringing joy to villagers and wildlife enthusiasts. Their presence in the floodplains and grasslands along the Kaudiyala River is considered significant for the region’s biodiversity.According to villagers, the increasing presence of rhinoceroses has coincided with a decline in elephant movement, providing relief to farmers who had been facing crop damage caused by elephant herds.Villager Santosh said a herd of rhinoceroses was spotted roaming in the river’s floodplains and grasslands near the village on Friday evening.He added that elephant herds had frequently entered agricultural fields and damaged crops earlier. However, their movement in the area has reportedly reduced in recent times, bringing relief to farmers.Wildlife enthusiasts believe that rhinoceroses and elephants are among Katarniaghat’s major wildlife attractions. Their presence highlights the region’s ecological importance and the need to protect its natural habitats.According to the forest department, a plan is being considered to develop natural forest cover on the land that will become vacant following the relocation of Bharthapur village. The initiative is expected to expand the forest area and provide additional habitat for rhinoceroses, tigers, elephants and other wildlife species.Katarniaghat Forest Range Officer Ashish Gaur said a herd of rhinoceroses inhabits the forests across the Gerua River. The animals move between Nepal’s Royal Bardia National Park and Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary through the Khata Corridor.He said the movement of rhinoceroses into the Katarniaghat region was also encouraging from a tourism perspective, as their presence could attract more wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.The forest department has increased patrolling in the area and appealed to villagers to maintain a safe distance from wild animals to prevent any untoward incidents.
