Kasaragod district has become the first district in India to officially designate its own tree, flower, bird and species. The decision is a testament to the region’s rich biodiversity and natural heritage.
The official tree of the district is ‘Kanjiram’ (Strychnos nux-vomica Linn), a species deriving its name from ‘kasara’, meaning wormwood, from which the name of the district originates. This declaration has played a vital role in conserving these trees, preventing their unnecessary felling.
The district bird is the White Bellied Sea Hawk, which is native to the region spanning from Mahe to Manjeswaram. Notably, it is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, and its nest-building habits play a crucial role in protecting the trees where it resides.
