The Dr. Daying Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary is a 190 square kilometer protected area located in Arunachal Pradesh, India, named after Daying Ering, a revered local politician who played a key role in its establishment in 1978.
This sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers, especially bird watchers. The sanctuary is roughly 80% alluvial grasslands, with the remaining area being riverine forests interspersed with bamboo and secondary forests. This unique combination of habitats creates an ideal environment for a diverse array of birdlife.
Birders flock to the sanctuary to see a variety of resident and migratory birds. Among the birds you might spot here are the endangered Indian skimmer, along with other interesting species such as the darter, black-bellied tern, lesser whistling teal, and many more. From September to February, the sanctuary comes alive with migratory birds arriving from Siberia and Mongolia.
The sanctuary is also home to a healthy population of big cats, including tigers and leopards. Keep your eyes peeled for other wildlife like elephants, clouded leopards, and sambar deer while exploring the sanctuary.
While the sanctuary itself is not located in Yingkiong, it is accessible from Pasighat, a town 13 kilometers away. The most common way to reach the sanctuary is by river cruise on the Siang River.
The sanctuary offers a variety of activities for visitors interested in ecotourism. These activities include:
- Trekking: There are several trails that wind through the sanctuary, offering visitors a chance to explore the diverse landscape and wildlife up close.
- River rafting: The Siang River that borders the sanctuary is a popular destination for river rafting adventures.
- Camping: Camping allows visitors to experience the sights and sounds of the sanctuary at night.
The nearby town of Pasighat offers a variety of accommodations and amenities for visitors to the sanctuary. Here, you can experience the unique culture and traditions of the local tribal communities.