Behali Wildlife Sanctuary: A kaleidoscope of rare butterflies

In the heart of the eastern foothills of the Himalayas lies a verdant haven that is as magical as it is vital to our planet's biodiversity. Behali Wildlife Sanctuary, once known as Behali Reserve Forest, is a thriving paradise for an astonishing variety of life forms. Among its many treasures, the sanctuary is particularly renowned for its vibrant butterfly population, a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns fluttering through the lush greenery.

Declared a proposed Wildlife Sanctuary on May 4, 2022, Behali is a testament to nature's resilience and beauty. This sanctuary, nestled in the Sonitpur East Forest Division, spans an area that is home to more than 275 species of butterflies. Researchers and naturalists have documented these delicate creatures, revealing the sanctuary as one of the most butterfly-rich regions in the world.

Hidden jewels of Behali wildlife sanctuary

Behali's butterfly population includes some of the rarest and most enchanting species on the planet. The Small Green Awlet (Burara amara) and the Orange Awlet (Burara harisa) are elusive gems often spotted here, their shimmering wings glinting in the dappled sunlight. The Brown Pied Flat (Coladenia agni) and Swinhoe’s Flat (Celanorrhinus zea) add to the rich tapestry of species that call this sanctuary home.

One of the most remarkable residents is the Green Striped Palmer (Pirdana major), whose vivid green stripes are a sight to behold. Equally mesmerizing is the White Dragontail (Lamproptera curius), with its distinctive tails trailing like delicate streamers. The sanctuary also hosts the Lesser Jay (Graphium evemon) and the Great Blue Mime (Papilio paradoxa), both known for their stunning wing patterns and graceful flight.

Nature's master of disguise

Among the many butterflies in Behali, the national butterfly of India, the Orange Oakleaf (Kallima inachus), stands out for its extraordinary camouflaging abilities. With its wings closed, this butterfly resembles a dry leaf, blending seamlessly into the forest floor. Yet, when it takes flight, the vivid orange of its upper wings is a dazzling display of color.

The Golden Birdwing (Troides aeacus), the largest butterfly in India, also graces Behali with its presence. Its impressive wingspan and golden hues make it a spectacular sight, often drawing the admiration of visitors and researchers alike.

A sanctuary of significance

The ecological importance of Behali Wildlife Sanctuary extends beyond its butterfly inhabitants. It is part of the Sonitpur-Kameng Elephant Reserve and has been recognized by the Bombay Natural History Society and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds as an Important Bird Area. In 2014, it was also designated as a Key Biodiversity Area, highlighting its global significance.

Home to over 52 species of mammals, 282 species of birds, 23 species of snakes, 11 species of turtles, 12 species of amphibians, and 11 species of lizards, Behali is a biodiverse hotspot. It is one of the thirty biodiversity hotspots in the world, making it a crucial area for conservation efforts.

Preserving a natural wonder

As we delve into the wonders of Behali Wildlife Sanctuary, we are reminded of the delicate balance that sustains such rich biodiversity. The sanctuary's lush forests and diverse species are a beacon of natural beauty and ecological importance. Conservation efforts are essential to protect this haven, ensuring that future generations can marvel at the fluttering jewels of Behali and the myriad other species that thrive in this vibrant ecosystem.

Behali Wildlife Sanctuary is more than just a forest; it is a living mosaic of life, a sanctuary where nature's most exquisite creations dance in the air, and where the preservation of biodiversity takes center stage. The butterflies of Behali are not just a testament to the beauty of nature but also a call to action to protect and cherish our planet's invaluable natural heritage.

With inputs by Pranoy Mahanta, Birdwatcher