Kappatagudda Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary located in Gadag district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It was formed in 2019 and it spans over dry deciduous hills across Gadag, Mundargi, and Shirahatti taluks.
The sanctuary features dry deciduous vegetation dominated by teak, Butea monosperma, acacia scrub, and native grasses like Cymbopogon spp. Riparian patches exist alongside seasonal streams.
A SACONâÂÂWII study confirmed the presence of 18 mammal species, including wolves, striped hyenas, jungle and rusty-spotted cats, small and large antelopes (blackbuck, chinkara, fourâÂÂhorned antelope), and wild boar.
Over 180 bird species have been documented. Notable species include Indian peafowl, plum-headed parakeet, crested serpent eagle, and larks and pipits typical of arid habitats.
In February 2025, the rare WhiteâÂÂNaped Tit (Parus nuchalis) was observed, highlighting the sanctuary's scrubâÂÂthorn habitat importance.
In October 2024, the Karnataka Wildlife Board deferred 28 mining licence applications within 10â¯km of the sanctuary, following objections and environmentalist concerns over buffer-zone violations.
Local activists rallied in November 2024 against buffer-zone reduction proposals, citing violations of the Wildlife Protection Act and lack of public consultation.
In early 2025, forest officials launched phaseâÂÂ2 of a survey using cameraâÂÂtraps and grid-based monitoring, successfully confirming presence of wolves, leopards, porcupines, and various carnivoresâÂÂalso helping deter illegal activity.
In December 2023, forest authorities released an annual wildlife-themed calendar featuring local speciesâÂÂan initiative to boost awareness and tourism.
Plans for jungle lodges and safari facilities by mid-2024 aim to replicate models from Bandipur and Dandeli, though infrastructure development is being paced to minimize ecological impact.