Source: TH
Subject: Mapping
Context: The Kerala government has officially renamed Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary as Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, making it the first butterfly sanctuary in Kerala.
About Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary:
What it is?
- A protected area in the Western Ghats, now exclusively recognised as Kerala’s first butterfly sanctuary, dedicated to the conservation of butterfly species and their habitats.
Located in: Kannur district, Kerala, on the western slopes of the Western Ghats, bordering Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary (Karnataka) and adjoining Kottiyoor Wildlife Sanctuary.
History:
- Constituted in 1984 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
- Originally notified as Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary, carved out from vested private forests and reserved forests.
- Renamed in July 2025–January 2026 following a recommendation of the State Board for Wildlife, citing unmatched butterfly richness.
Key geographical features:
- Area: ~55 sq km of evergreen and semi-evergreen forests.
- Hydrology: Drained by the Cheenkanni River, a major tributary system of Kannur district.
- Climate:
- High rainfall (~4000–6000 mm annually).
- Temperature range: 11°C–40°C.
- High humidity supporting rich microclimates.
- Biodiversity hotspot:
- 266 of Kerala’s 327 butterfly species recorded.
- Noted for mass butterfly migration and mud-puddling.
- Habitat of the Schedule I Slender Loris and other Western Ghats endemics.
Significance:
- Elevates Aralam as a nationally unique conservation model focused on insects, especially pollinators.
- Strengthens protection of butterflies as indicators of ecosystem health.
- Enhances Kerala’s profile in biodiversity conservation and eco-tourism.
- Supports Western Ghats conservation, a UNESCO World Heritage biodiversity hotspot.
