Yeoor to be a better home for butterflies-Thane-Cities-The Times of India
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THE TIMES OF INDIA
Yeoor to be a better home for butterflies
20 Feb 2009, 0404 hrs IST, TNN
THANE: Were you aware that the world's largest Atlas Moth - having a wing span of ten inches to a foot is frequently seen in the Yeoor range? Well it is true that not only this, but some 72 known species of butterflies with about 127 to 130 sub-species are found in and around this area. The forest department is taking initiatives to attract more butterflies to this area so that the people get to know more about them.
V P Patil, the Assistant Conservator of Forests (Yeoor), said, "The landscaping which will be done will enhance the appearance of the Nature Interpretation Centre. The plants will be grown near the Centre and tourist cottages. The local public will be treated to a breathtaking sight of many colourful butterflies. We are sure that people will get to know more about these beautiful creatures. It will be especially informative for the children visiting the Centre."
The wildlife wing of Maharashtra had created Nature Interpretation Centers around the state, educating people on the importance of interaction between wild animals, plants and importance of conserving forests.
Y R Masurkar, the Range Forest Officer, informed, "To attract the butterflies that are visible in the Yeoor Hills closer to civilisation for sensitising us, some special plants are being grown. Many varieties of plants such as Khulkhula, Peru, Marigold, Lantana and Pudina will be planted so that more and more people can see these colourful butterflies. We believe that with increased number of butterflies visiting this area, people will get to view them closely. Moreover little children will be very happy."
According to Dr Minal Vaidya, who has done her PhD in Horticulture, "The flowers, smells, colors and nectar of these plants attract more butterflies in comparison that other plants do and I have incorporated this system successfully elsewhere."
