Chandrapur: A nature trail organised by the Kothari Forest Range under the Central Chanda Forest Division recorded 21 species of butterflies, highlighting the rich biodiversity of the Zaran Nursery area.The “Butterfly Walk” was organised to sensitise forest personnel to the ecological significance of butterflies and the need for their conservation. The trail was conducted under the guidance of Range Forest Officer and wildlife researcher Rundan Katkar.Participants observed butterflies across different habitats and learnt about species identification, habitats, host and food plants, life cycles and their role in pollination. Among the species recorded were Common Crow, Common Rose, Crimson Rose, Common Mormon, Great Eggfly, Plain Tiger, Lemon Pansy, Peacock Pansy, Common Jay and Grass Yellow.The programme also underlined that butterflies are sensitive indicators of ecosystem health. Protecting native vegetation, conserving natural habitats and reducing indiscriminate pesticide use were emphasised as key measures for their conservation.
