A first report on butterfly diversity at three selected areas of Daringbadi, Odisha

Abstract

Butterflies are widely recognized as effective ecological indicators due to their sensitivity to habitat changes and climatic variations. The present study was conducted in Daringbadi, a hill station in the Kandhamal district of Odisha, India, known for its rich biodiversity and diverse habitats. Surveys were carried out over four days at three ecologically distinct sites: woodland forest, shrubby grassland, and a valley area. Data was collected using the Pollard Walk method, Time-Constrained counts, and Direct Searching. A total of 21 butterfly species were recorded, belonging to 4 families: Nymphalidae (14 species), Lycaenidae (2 species), Papilionidae (2 species), and Pieridae (2 species), with an overall population count of 507 individuals. Species identification was based on wing morphology and verified using photographic evidence and field guides. This study highlights the butterfly diversity of the Daringbadi region and provides a baseline for future ecological monitoring and conservation strategies in the Eastern Ghats of India.