PALAKKAD: Parambikulam Tiger Reserve becomes a marvel of animal diversity. Researchers have confirmed the presence of 11 previously undiscovered species. A total of 204 species of butterflies were identified in three days. Four of these are new and they are Nilgiri nalkannan, thalirneenili, ocean blue border and nattupanantullan. With this, the species of butterflies recorded in the reserve became 287. Dragonflies like Anaciaeschna martini Selys, Paragomphus lineatus, Diplacodes lefebvrii, Trithemis pallidinervis and Agriocnemis pieris were also found. With this, the number of Dragonflies has increased to 58.

The survey was conducted by the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department in collaboration with the Travancore Natural History Society, Thiruvananthapuram. Around 70 representatives and forest staff participated. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve Deputy Director R Sujith, Range Forest Officers C Ajayan, A Vijindev, Brijesh V and Conservation Biologist Vishnu Vijayan led the drive.

Birds 295

Short-toed snake eagles, brown wood owls and paddyfield pipits are new birds. Sri Lanka Frog Mouth, Great Eared Nightjar, Oriental Darter, River Tern, Black Eagle, Bonelli's Eagle, Malabar Trogon, Hornbill, Malabar Parakeet, Black Bulbul, Wayanad Laughing Thrush, etc. are the main bird sightings. With this, the species of birds became 295.

Conservation of the area will be made more efficient with the findings of the survey.

Sujith.R, Deputy Director

Parambikulam Tiger Reserve