Butterfly Survey Records 49 Species in Kadbanwadi Grasslands of Pune Division
Pune, 6th October 2025: A recent scientific butterfly survey conducted by the Maharashtra Forest Department’s Pune Division during Wildlife Week (October 1–4) has revealed the presence of 49 butterfly species in the Kadbanwadi grasslands and nearby areas including Shirsufal, Kumbhargaon, and Bhigwan.
The study was led by renowned butterfly researcher Dr. Raju Kasambe, former Assistant Director of the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), Mumbai, who has authored several books on butterflies and has extensive experience in studying grassland ecosystems.
The survey documented a rich variety of butterfly species typical of the Deccan plateau and semi-arid grasslands. Notable among them were Common Grass Dart, Lineblues, Crimson Tip, Common Three-ring, and Common Five-ring, which are key indicators of healthy grassland habitats. Additionally, arid grassland species such as African Babul Blue and Bright Babul Blue were also sighted. The highest diversity was recorded among the Lycaenidae (Blues) family, followed by Pieridae (Whites and Yellows).
According to officials, this marks the first phase of a larger biodiversity documentation programme aimed at assessing flora and fauna across the grassland regions of the Pune Division. The initiative involves systematic data collection on butterflies, birds, trees, shrubs, and grass species in the grassland-dominated forest ranges of Indapur, Baramati, and Saswad.
The butterfly survey completed in October will be followed by two more phases during winter and summer to study seasonal variations in species diversity. All fieldwork is being conducted using standard scientific methods.
The project is being carried out under the supervision of Ashish Thakre, Conservator of Forests, Pune Circle, and Mahadev Mohite, Deputy Conservator of Forests, Pune Division. Field implementation is coordinated by Assistant Conservators of Forests Mangesh Tate and Atul Jainak, with active support from Range Forest Officer Bhagyashri Thakur and her team in Indapur.
“Grasslands are among the most threatened yet vital ecosystems,” said Mahadev Mohite, Deputy Conservator of Forests, Pune Division. “Documenting their biodiversity helps us plan long-term conservation strategies and explore sustainable eco-tourism opportunities.”
Officials added that the findings from this survey will serve as a baseline for future studies and conservation planning in Maharashtra’s semi-arid grasslands, which are home to diverse wildlife but remain one of the least-studied ecosystems in the region.
