Mount Abu Sanctuary was declared as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1960. In shape this sanctuary is long and narrow but the top spreads out into a picturesque plateau which is about 19 km. is length and 5-8 km. in breadth. The rocks are igneous and due the weathering effect of wind and water, large cavities are common the rocks. This feature is typical of Aravali and particularly of Mt, Abu. Toad Rock in Mount Abu is one such example.

Mt. Abu is not only a sanctuary but also a fascinating hill station of Rajasthan. It is a living example of an inextricable mix of religion and tourism.

More than 250 species of birds are found here, but the speciality of the Abu sanctuary is the grey jungle fowl. The leopard sloth bear, wild boar, sambar, chinkara and langur are the other inhabitants here. A variety of fauna including highly rare, threatened and endangered species are found in this sanctuary.

Mount Abu Sanctuary
Between the Himalayas and the Nilgiri mountain ranges, the highest place (about 1700 MSL) is Mt. Abu is not only a sanctuary but also a fascinating hill station of Rajasthan. It is a living example of an inextricable mix of religion and tourism. The sanctuary spread over 288 kms is dominated by subtropical evergreen forests known for its cool refreshing air, fully charged with the jasmine.

It is unique in the sense that more than 250 species of birds are found here, but the speciality of the Abu sanctuary is the grey jungle fowl. The leopard sloth bear, wild boar, sambar, chinkara and langur are the other inhabitants here. A variety of fauna including highly rare, threatened and endangered species are found in this sanctuary.

The past history of Mount Abu indicates the presence of Lion (last recorded in 1872) and Tiger (last reported in 1970). Presently, the Panther is the apex predator. Other animals found here are Sambhar, Jungle Cat, Small Indian Civet, Wolf, Hyaena, Jackal, Indian Fox, Common Langoor, Wild Boar, Pangolin, Ratel, Common Mongoose, India Hare Porcupine, Hedgehog, etc.

The sanctuary provides an ideal habitat for Sloth Bear. The population of Sloth Bear is increasing regularly as it can be seen while going through the forests or motoring on the road. This sanctuary is so filled with the activities of birds that it is a sort of pilgrimage for bird lovers.

Location
The sanctuary comprises the oldest mountain ranges the Aravalis in Sirohi district of Rajasthan. The detached group of hills rise suddenly from the flat plain like a rocky island. The sanctuary is situated between 24°33' and 24°43' North latitude and 72°38' and 72°53' East longitude.