Dzongu (Sikkim) [India], October 24 (HBTV): An unusual butterfly species, the Spotless Baron (Euthalia recta), has been photographed at Dzongu in North Sikkim by nature conservationist Sonam Wangchuk Lepcha, marking its return after five years.
According to records, the Spotless Baron was first sighted in Sikkim on October 29, 2019, also in Dzongu. The second confirmed sighting, captured on October 19, 2025, reaffirms Dzongu’s ecological richness and its significance as a biodiversity hotspot in the Eastern Himalayas.
The Spotless Baron is known for its elusive nature and the absence of the characteristic white spots seen on its close relatives, making sightings particularly special for lepidopterists and conservationists.
Meanwhile, in Arunachal Pradesh, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein attended the 2nd Wakro Butterfly Meet, held as part of the 8th Northeast Butterfly Meet at Wakro in the Kamlang Tiger Reserve and Wildlife Sanctuary on Thursday.
Mein praised the efforts of the Kamlang Valley Nature Club, Butterflies of North Eastern India Group, Kamlang Tiger Reserve and Wildlife Sanctuary, experts, and volunteers working to preserve the region’s rich biodiversity. He commended their role in promoting eco-tourism as a sustainable livelihood avenue and in celebrating the Northeast’s butterfly diversity.
‘Butterflies are integral to our ecological balance. Events such as the Namdapha Butterfly Meet and Ziro Butterfly Meet have inspired awareness and conservation efforts across the Northeast. It is heartening to witness the same enthusiasm here at Wakro, especially among the youth who are emerging as true custodians of biodiversity,’ said Mein.
Highlighting the State Government’s focus on sustainable tourism, the Deputy Chief Minister announced plans to develop a Nature Trail in Kamlang, along with an Angling Spot nearby, to promote responsible tourism and empower local communities. He added that such initiatives would help balance progress with preservation.
Mein also shared his long-term vision for the creation of a Butterfly Park in a remote and feasible location in Arunachal Pradesh, dedicated to research, conservation, and eco-tourism, designed with ecological sensitivity in mind.
(ANI)