¨
India's first butterfly sanctuary declared in the Western Ghats of
Kerala.
¨ Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala was
renamed as Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary by the Kerala State Wildlife Board.
¨ With this renaming, it became the first
protected forest in India dedicated solely to butterflies.
¨ The sanctuary, spanning 55 square kilometers,
houses over 266 butterfly species, representing more than 80% of Kerala’s
butterfly population.
¨ This recognition came after 25 years of
consistent surveys and conservation advocacy by local experts and wildlife
enthusiasts.
¨ Seasonal butterfly migration, especially
between October and February, transforms the sanctuary into a vivid natural
display.
¨ Species such as the Common Albatross
butterfly contribute to a spectacular view, as they fly amidst orchids, tall
trees, and wildflowers.
¨ Since its establishment in 1984, Aralam has
attracted researchers due to its biodiversity and sustained ecological
initiatives.
¨ Annual butterfly surveys have been conducted
by the State Forest Department in collaboration with the Malabar Natural
History Society.
¨
The sanctuary is also inhabited by elephants, leopards, giant squirrels,
and a variety of bird species.
