Why in news?
A survey of butterflies and moths has been launched in the Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary in Mulugu district, Telangana. The study aims to document insect diversity in one of the state’s oldest protected areas.
Background
Established in 1952, Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary covers about 812 square kilometres in the eastern Telangana village of Eturnagaram. It lies roughly 100 kilometres from Warangal and 250 kilometres from Hyderabad, near the borders of Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh. The undulating landscape ranges from steep hills to gentle plains, and the Godavari River and a perennial stream called Dayyam Vagu divide the sanctuary into two sections. Rich tropical dry‑deciduous forests of teak, bamboo, madhuca and terminalia blanket the area.
Flora and fauna
- Vegetation: Dense stands of teak reach heights of 18 metres. Associated species include bamboo, pterocarpus and mahua trees. The sanctuary also hosts medicinal plants and wildflowers that support pollinators.
- Mammals: The forests shelter tigers, leopards, wolves, dholes (wild dogs), golden jackals, sloth bears, four‑horned antelopes (chousingha), nilgai, sambar and blackbuck. Gaurs, chinkara, spotted deer and Indian giant squirrels also inhabit the area.
- Birds and reptiles: Numerous resident and migratory birds visit the sanctuary. Reptiles include the mugger crocodile, Indian rock python and various venomous snakes.
- Cultural heritage: The biennial Sammakka–Saralamma Jatara, an important tribal festival, is celebrated within the sanctuary. An ancient temple dedicated to the deities Sammakka and Saralamma attracts pilgrims and marks the strong bond between local communities and nature.
Importance
Monitoring butterfly and moth populations helps gauge ecosystem health because these insects are sensitive to habitat changes. Eturnagaram’s rich biodiversity and cultural significance make its conservation vital for both wildlife and indigenous communities.
Sources: Deccan Chronicle · General information