Six new visitors at Srirangam’s butterfly conservatory

There were six new visitors to the Tropical Butterfly Conservatory in Srirangam recently boasting of exotic names such as ‘African Babul Blue, ‘Peacock Royal’ and ‘Indian Red Flash’.

The winged visitors were recorded at the lush green conservatory during a recent survey conducted by the Forest Department, in association with Butterflies of Tamil Nadu, on June 1 and June 16. The survey teams recorded six new visitors: Large Oak Blue, Painted Lady, Spot Sword Tail, Peacock Royal, Indian Red Flash, African Babul Blue.

A Forest Department official said the African Babul Blue butterfly species was recorded on June 16, while the remaining on June 1.

Periodic surveys are being conducted from March to ascertain the number of species at the conservatory situated between the Cauvery and the Coleroon rivers. The surveys show that the number of butterfly species at the conservatory, established on a sprawling 25-acre reserve forest area, has now risen to 85.

Butterflies are attracted by the suitable green environment at the conservatory, besides a host of nectar plants in different patches, said the official adding that many species had migrated from the nearby reserve forest patches.

The survey will be a continuous exercise and carried out for a year. The butterfly population at the conservatory is likely to increase further if Tiruchi gets good rain, the official felt.

The tropical butterfly conservatory is one-of-its-kind in the State established with the objective of creating awareness among the people on butterflies and their importance. Some of the other species recorded at the conservatory include Lemon Pansy, Blue Pansy, Yellow Pansy, Common Jay, Common Silverline and Common Leopard.

Source: http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Tiruchirapalli/six-new-visitors-at-srirangams-butterfly-conservatory/article19153512.ece