Rare Black Spotted Deer Sighted at Umred-Pauni-Karhandla Sanctuary, Sparks Excitement
Deer Sighted at Umred-Pauni-Karhandla Sanctuary
A rare melanistic spotted deer was spotted near Pawni Gate in Maharashtra’s Umred-Pauni-Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary, drawing attention from wildlife enthusiasts and researchers.
Bhandara | 10 April, 2026: In a rare and exciting development for wildlife enthusiasts, a melanistic spotted deer, commonly known as a black chital, has been sighted at the Umred-Pauni-Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary near Pawni Gate in Bhandara district.
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The unusual sighting was recorded during a safari by local guide Dinesh Dahare, who managed to capture the rare animal on camera. The deer was observed moving within a herd of typical spotted deer, which usually have a light brown coat with white spots. In contrast, this particular animal displayed a distinctly dark, almost black coloration, making it stand out prominently.
Wildlife experts attribute this rare appearance to a genetic condition known as melanism, where an excess of melanin pigment results in darker skin or fur than usual. Such occurrences are considered extremely rare in spotted deer populations in the wild, making the sighting scientifically significant.
The sanctuary, located in eastern Maharashtra, is known for its rich biodiversity, featuring dense forests, grasslands, and abundant water sources. It supports a wide range of herbivores such as chital, sambar, and wild boar, which in turn sustain predators like tigers and leopards.
Forest officials have welcomed the sighting, noting that the presence of such rare genetic variations indicates a healthy and thriving ecosystem. Assistant Conservator of Forests Sandeep Bharti stated that such discoveries highlight the sanctuary’s role as a secure habitat for diverse wildlife species.
The sighting has generated considerable excitement among wildlife photographers, researchers, and nature lovers, many of whom are now keen to visit the region in hopes of catching a glimpse of the rare animal. The forest department has officially documented the occurrence for further study and monitoring.
Experts believe that continued conservation efforts and habitat protection are essential to preserving such unique wildlife phenomena. The rare black chital sighting stands as a testament to the ecological richness of the sanctuary and reinforces the importance of safeguarding natural habitats.
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