Butterfly Identification and Monitoring Workshop

Butterfly Identification and Monitoring Workshop The Butterfly Identification and Monitoring Workshop was conducted at the Amphitheatre of Nilgiri Biosphere Nature Park (NBNP) on 5th July 2023. The program witnessed enthusiastic participation from 151 students of Maharishi Vidya Mandir Senior Higher Secondary School, accompanied by 6 teachers. The workshop was designed to introduce participants to the fascinating world of butterflies—their behaviors, habitats and field identification techniques. Day 1 Highlights Introduction to NBNP – Vision & Mission The event began with an engaging session on the vision and mission of NBNP, emphasizing the role of biodiversity conservation and environmental awareness. This foundation helped the students understand the importance of butterflies in sustaining ecological balance. Group Activities – Guided Exploration Students were divided into three groups: one led by Ms. R. Santhosini and the other two by SACON research scholars, Mr. Ashiq and Mr. Sharma. Each group explored the Butterfly Garden, Herbal Garden and RET Plant Garden, where students observed butterfly species, their habitats, and behaviors. The scholars simplified butterfly identification techniques by introducing family-level characteristics. Presentation on Common Butterflies A detailed PowerPoint presentation highlighted field techniques for identifying common butterflies, supported by visuals and explanations. This session enriched the participants’ knowledge and made identification approachable. Interactive Discussion & Q&A Students eagerly participated in a lively Q&A session, clarifying their doubts about butterfly species, behaviors, and conservation. The scholars provided practical and informative responses, making the discussion highly valuable. Certification, Group Photo & Feedback The workshop concluded with the distribution of participation certificates, followed by a group photo. Both teachers and students shared positive feedback, appreciating the workshop’s informative and engaging approach. Day 1 left students inspired, instilling in them a deeper appreciation for butterfly conservation and ecological balance. Day 2 Highlights Introduction & Butterfly Walk Day 2 began with a short introduction to NBNP and its mission. Participants, numbering 60 from Tamil Nadu and Kerala, were divided into two groups for a 1.5 km guided butterfly walk. Along the trail, they spotted species such as the Monkey Puzzle, Oak Blue, Common Nawab, Common Shot Silverline, among others. Field Identification & Host Plants The walk was followed by discussions on field identification techniques, butterfly host plants and methods of creating butterfly gardens, enabling participants to connect theory with practice. Butterfly Checklist Activity Participants were then divided into 20 groups of three members each to conduct a butterfly checklist activity across the Butterfly Garden, Herbal Garden, and RET Garden. This hands-on task helped reinforce species recognition and ecological relationships. Closing Session & Feedback The day concluded with an engaging feedback session, where participants expressed their enthusiasm and appreciation for the workshop. The interactive and field-based format was well received, sparking keen interest in butterfly monitoring and conservation. Conclusion The two-day Butterfly Identification and Monitoring Workshop proved to be both educational and inspiring. With over 200 participants in total, the workshop successfully fostered curiosity, practical skills and conservation awareness among students and nature enthusiasts. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the students, teachers, SACON research scholars and NBNP staff for their invaluable support in making this workshop a remarkable success.