Kerala Renames Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary as Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary

The Kerala government has officially renamed the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary as the Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary, making it the first butterfly sanctuary in the State. The decision was notified through SRO No. 1407/2025, issued under Section 18(1) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

Amendment to 1984 Notification

The renaming amends the original 1984 government notification that had declared the Aralam Farm area as a wildlife sanctuary. The change was made following a recommendation by the State Board for Wildlife, which highlighted the area’s exceptional butterfly diversity and abundance.

Rich Biodiversity Hotspot in Kannur

Declared a sanctuary in 1984, Aralam spans about 55 sq km of evergreen and semi-evergreen forests in Kannur district. The region is nationally known for large-scale butterfly migration and mud-puddling behaviour, making it a unique ecological landscape.

Habitat of Rare and Protected Species

Apart from butterflies, Aralam is also a special habitat of the Schedule I Slender Loris, a highly protected species under the Wildlife (Protection) Act. This underscores the sanctuary’s broader ecological importance beyond lepidopteran conservation.

Strategic Ecological Connectivity

The sanctuary shares boundaries with the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary (Karnataka), Kottiyoor Wildlife Sanctuary, and the North Wayanad Forest Division, strengthening wildlife corridors across the Western Ghats.

Role of Cheenkanni River

The Cheenkanni River, a major river in Kannur district originating from the Brahmagiri ranges, flows through the dense forests of Aralam. Its presence significantly contributes to the region’s rich biodiversity and ecological stability.