Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary

Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary: Recently, the Kerala State Wildlife Board renamed the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary in Kannur district as the Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, marking it as India’s first protected forest solely dedicated to butterflies.

• About Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary : Situated in the Kannur district of Kerala, along the Western Ghats.

o Area: Covers approximately 55 sq. km of tropical and semi-evergreen forests.

o River System: Drained primarily by the Cheenkannipuzha River.

o Biodiversity: Hosts over 266 species of butterflies, accounting for more than 80% of all butterfly species in Kerala.

ü Includes both endemic and endangered butterfly species.

o Other Wildlife: Besides butterflies, Aralam is also home to elephants, giant squirrels, leopards, and a wide variety of bird species.

• Seasonal Butterfly Migration: Between October and February, the sanctuary witnesses a vibrant butterfly migration from the lower slopes of the Western Ghats.

o The peak of this migration occurs during the season of the Common Albatross butterfly, creating a spectacular display of butterflies fluttering among tall trees, wildflowers, and orchids.

• Butterfly Migration Study: Held every January or February, this study documents and celebrates the migration, helping deepen scientific understanding of these important pollinators.