Kerala's Western Ghats Now Home To India's First Butterfly Sanctuary: Details Inside

The Western Ghats, a haven for trekkers and nature enthusiasts, has long been a magnet for travellers seeking solace in its lush green landscapes and misty mountains. Tucked away in this breathtaking stretch now lies a butterfly sanctuary that's just waiting to be discovered. On June 18, the Kerala State Wildlife Board renamed the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary in Kannur as the Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary. With this, it became India's first protected forest dedicated entirely to butterflies. This momentous acknowledgment follows 25 years of perseverance, meticulous surveys, and the steadfast conviction of local wildlife enthusiasts, forest officials, and experts that even the tiniest wings should have a secure home.

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The renamed sanctuary, which covers 55 square kilometers amid the verdant folds of tropical and semi-evergreen forests, is home to over 266 species of butterflies, accounting for more than 80 percent of all butterflies in Kerala. Some of these are unique to this region, while others are endangered. Between October and February, the sanctuary transforms into a living rainbow when butterflies migrate here from the lower slopes of the Western Ghats. An amazing scene is created during this season, also known as the time for the Common albatross butterfly, when hundreds of butterflies fill the air and fly amid tall trees, orchids, and wildflowers. 

Aralam has been popular among researchers and environmentalists since it was founded in 1984. The State Forest Department has been conducting yearly butterfly surveys in collaboration with the Malabar Natural History Society for over two decades. Every January or February, the sanctuary holds a Butterfly Migration Study, which celebrates this seasonal movement and deepens our understanding of these pollinators. 

In addition to butterflies, Aralam is home to several animals, including elephants, giant squirrels, leopards, and a variety of birds. Through guided hikes on the Butterfly Safari Trail, visitors can learn more about the mysteries of butterfly behavior, host plants, and conservation initiatives in the area. 

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Aralam offers not just natural beauty but also educational opportunities and peace amidst nature to travellers.