Kerala has inaugurated India’s first dedicated butterfly sanctuary by renaming the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary as the Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary. Located in the Western Ghats, this sanctuary protects over 266 butterfly species and marks a significant step in India’s biodiversity conservation efforts.

Key Points:

• The Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary in Kannur, Kerala, has been officially declared India’s first butterfly sanctuary.
• The sanctuary spans 55 sq km and is home to 266 butterfly species, including 27 endemic to the Western Ghats.
• Every year, thousands of butterflies migrate to Aralam during October–December, creating a spectacular natural event.
• Scientific surveys conducted since 2000 have helped identify new species and support conservation awareness.
• The sanctuary is expected to boost ecotourism, scientific research, and long-term habitat protection for butterflies and other forest species.