Susanth’s Birds and Butterflies

AN ENCHANTING TRIP TO PONMUDI HILLS

WITH SUMMER SHOWER AND MIST

C.SUSANTH,PRAKRITI,SNRA-20,INDIRA NAGAR,PERURKADA.P.O,THIRUVANANTHAPURM-695005

c.susanth@gmail.com   susanth.c@gmail.com

We(B.V.Premkrishnan,T.Varun,S.S.Anooj and I) had a memorable trip to Kallar-Ponmudi Hills during 23^rd March 2008. In the midst of heavy summer shower we decide to conduct a trip to the hill station of  southern Western Ghats . Ponmudi-Kallar Reserve forest in Thiruvananthapuram District, Kerala,India is the southern end of Western Ghats (8˚ 45˝ Latitude  and 77˚ 6˝ Longitude) It’s a part of  Ashambu hill ranges. The whole area is hilly in character and the terrain is highly undulating. The Ponmudi-Kallar reserve forest is an assemblage of thick tracts of tropical evergreen forests, small patches of shoal forests, semi evergreen forests, moist deciduous forests, grasslands and monoculture plantations.  The altitude varies from 30m at the foot of the hills to 1081 m on the hill tops.  Ponmudi Varayattumottai (Ibex Hills) is the highest  peak with 1081 meters above MSL. The northern and western slopes of this peak are inaccessible. On the northern slopes of the ridge facing Ponmmudi hill resort is a patch of thick tropical evergreen, whereas the western slopes facing Peringamala is intermingled with semi evergreen , moist deciduous and grasslands.  The shola patches between Sarkarmottai and Ponmudi Varyattumottai is noted for abundance of hill birds.

            The mean annual temperature varies from 16 C to 35 C. In the top of Ponmudi Hill Resort and Ibex Hills temperature drops to even less than 13 C. The Ponmudi-Kallar reserve forests receive the benefit of both the south-west and north-east monsoons.

Ponmudi-Kallar reserve forest is contiguous with Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary,Kulathupuzha reserve forest and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary.

KALLAR

When we reached Kallar drizzling rain welcome us to the wilderness.  Our trip was pre-planned for spent the whole day with rain in the wilderness of  Kallar-Ponmudi Hills.

A wild plan for a Sunday. Our trekking began from Kallar. Rain plays its role very well.

We are in a joyous mood. We spent some time our favourite riverine spots on the way to Ponmudi.

            The birds were active in break of summer shower.  Hunting parties were fluttering in the canopy.  Metallic sound of Racket-tailed drongos,musical calls of Fairy Blue bird and Yellow browed bulbul reverberate the wet evergreen forests. Lone call of Spotted Babbler heard from the reed thickets. Quaker babbler’s musical call attracts our attention.

Noisy Large Wood Shrikes, Bronzed Drongos and Scarlet Minivets  busily fed in the foliage. Musical call of  Large-billed leaf warbler and  short calls of Greenish warbler heard from secondary wet forests.

            Butterflies were less active compare with birds.  Evening browns and Bush browns were active in the undergrowth. Amphibian watching was also done in our 5km long trekking. Golden Frog,  Dusky Torrent Frog, Varicose frog and Skipper frog                            were the prominent amphibian species observed in this trip. After 5 km trekking  we continued our journey  in Kerala Road Transport Corporation bus. Remaining distance(11km) covered by bus. Heavy shower began. The hills and valleys disappeared in the rain clouds. We were wet in the heavy shower. Other passengers looked us with puzzled faces.

PONMUDI

Ponmudi hill resort welcomes us with heavy rain. Our trekking began from Ponmudi guest house to Ponmudi Upper Sanatorium(2Km). We were walking in the rain with overwhelming spirit. Walking along with rain,mist,chilled climate was an awesome experience to us.

The rain stopped and the whole area was covered by blanket of mist. Sudden climatic changes also a memorable experience.  When we reached top of  Upper sanatorium climate fully changed. The weather was clear and mist was completely gone. The blue hills and green valley appeared in front of us like a dream world. Enchanting world of nature, how to explain it more? Beyond words.

            We were relaxing at the top of Ponmudi Upper sanotorium  with eternal happiness.

Nature acts as a great tranquillizer. Cotton like white clouds were scattered over blue mountains. Clouds are moving slowly below us. Sailing below us. Blanket of mist come again with chilled wind refresh our spirit. Time spend here is tranquil.

Our enchanting trip was wind up at 4pm.

SIGNIFICANT BIRD SIGHTINGS

01. Indian Swiftlet – Collocalia unicolor

      Small flocks were seen soaring at upper sanitorium throughout the mist.

02. White-rumped Needletial –Zoonavena sylvatica

       Flocks seen at Ponmudi Guest house region

03. Brown-backed Needletail –Hindapus giganteus

      Seen flew with White-rumped Needletail.

04. Alpine Swift-Tachymarptis melba

      Large flocks were seen soaring over the hills throughout the misty noon and evening.

05.Nilgiri Wood Pigeon – Columba eliphinstoni

     Two birds were seen in the shola patch near the Ponmudi upper sanitorium region

06.Black Eagle-Ictinaetus malayensis

     A single bird is seen soaring overhead at Ponmudi upper sanitorium region.

07.Common Kestrel-Falco tinnunculus

     Two birds were seen hovering over the grasslands at Ponmudi Police Wireless station

     premise.

08.Scarlet Minivet-Pericrocotus flammeus

     Active groups were observed with mixed hunting parties of birds at Kallar.

09.Bronzed Drongo-Dicrurus aeneus

     Noisy birds were seen in the hunting party.

10.White throated Ground Thrush-Zoothera citrine

     Its long melodious call heard from the secondary wet forest of  Kallar .

11.Eurasian Blackbird-Turdus merula

     A single bird was seen in wet evergreen forest of Kallar valley.

12.Grey-headed Bulbul-Pycnonotus pricephalus

     This endemic bulbul was sighted at evergreen forests of  Kallar valley. It’s Whee..tee-

      Wee-tee call was also heard from reed thickets.

13. Grey-breasted Prinia-Prinia hodgsonii

      Observed at grasslands of Upper sanitorium.

14. Broad-tailed Grassbird-Schoenicola platyura

      Active birds were seen at the grasslands of Upper sanitorium. Its call was also heard.

15.Rufous Babbler-Turdoides subrufus

     A flock was seen at grasslands of  Upper sanitorium.

16.Little Spiderhunter-Arachnothera longirostra

     Little spider hunter was vocal at Kallar. Its breeding call was also heard.

17. Grey wagtail-Motacila cinerea

      Five birds were seen gathering in front of termite nest near the road for capturing

      Termite fly

18. Nilgiri Pipit-Anthus nilghiriensis

      This endemic pipit was observed at grasslands of  Upper sanitorium.It’s breeding  

      call and display was also observed.

SIGNIFICANT BUTTERFLY SIGHTINGS

01. Southern Birdwing-Troides minos

      Individual butterflies were seen flew over the canopy at Kallar.

02. Malabar Rose-Pachiliopta pandiyana

      Individual butterflies were seen  flew over the canopy of wet evergreen forests.

03. Nilgiri Tiger-Parantica nilgiriensis

      This endemic butterfly to Western Ghats was observed at Ponmudi Kampimood

      region.

04. Bicolour Ace-Sovia hyrtacus

      This endemic hespiiradae species was seen licking liquid from bird droppings.

THE TEAM MEMBERS OF THIS TRIP:C.SUSANTH,B.V.PREMKRISHNAN,T.VARN AND S.S.ANOOJ
The Panoramic view of  Ponmudi  photo by T.Varun 

Warblers and Waders, Bird watchers/Nature lovers group of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India conducted a One day bird watching/trekking camp at Chanthancode-Vayuvanthol forest region of Peppara Wild  Life Sanctuary (8˚34 30˝ to 8˚41 25˝N latitude and 77˚61 50˝ to 77˚41 5˝ E longitude)

, Kerala India during 9^th March 2008. The vegetation ranges from southern secondary moist mixed deciduous forest to southern subtropical hill forest.  The area generally falls in the moderately to highly undulating terrain units.  Thodayar, with its perennial supply of water is the main source of drainage.

            I had an opportunity to participate in this camp. 43 bird species, 32 butterfly species amphibians and reptiles include King Cobra sighting during our trekking from

Chathancode to Vayuvanthol waterfalls. It was a rain soaked day with little sunny intervals. The wet forest undergrowth infested with blood thirsty leeches. Open forests attracts mixed hunting parties of birds and basking/nectaring /mudpuddling butterflies.

SIGNIFICANT BIRD SIGHTINGS

01. Malabar Grey Hornbill-Ocyeros griseus

     Noise heard from the evergreen forest.

02. Malabar Trogon-Harpactes fasciatus

     A female bird was seen near the trek path

03. Plum-headed Parakeet-Psittacula cyanocephala

     Noisy flocks were observed.

04. Emerald Dove-Chalcophaps indica

     A single bird seen near the riparian forest.

05. White breasted Waterhen-Amauromis akool

      A single bird was seen in the reed thickets near the Thodayar river

06. Crested Serpent Eagle-Spilornis cheela

      Seen in the canopy.

07. Asian Fairy Bluebird – Irena puella

     Small flocks were seen with the mixed hunting parties of birds near the trek path.

08. Golden fronted Leaf Bird –Chloropsis aurifrons

      Noisy pair observed in the open forest

09. Eurasian Golden Oriole-Oriolus oriolus

     Most abundant winter visitor seen in this trip.

10. Scarlet Minivet-Pericrococotus flammeus

     Noisy groups seen at the thick riparian forest.

11. Greater Racket-tailed Drongo-Dicrurus paradiseus

     Family groups were observed

12. Asian Paradise Flycatcher-Terpsiphone paradise

     Active adult male bird was seen near the trek path.

13. Large Wood Shrike-Tephrodornis gularis

     Small groups were seen with the mixed hunting party of birds.

14. Malabar Whistling Thrush-Myophonus horsfieldii

     Individual birds were seen near the forest stream. Its melodious song was also heard

     from the riparian forest.

15. Brown-breasted Flycatcher-Muscicapa muttui

    A single bird was seen near Thodayar river.

16. Hill Myna-Gracula religiosa

     Small flocks observed in the canopy.

17. Grey headed Bulbul-Pycnonotus priocephalus

     This endemic bulbul to Western Ghats was sighted at evergreen region.

18. Large-billed Leaf Warbler-Phylloscopus magnirostris

     This migrant bird was seen in the evergreen patches. It’s

     Twsee…twsee/sweeti….sweeti call heard from the riparian forest.

19. Crimson-backed Sunbird-Nectarinia minima

      Nectaring pair observed at open forest.

20. Grey Wagtail-Motacila cinerea

     Individual birds were observed near the forest stream.

     One bird had seen hopping over the steep rocks of Vayuvanthol waterfalls.

21. Black throated Munia-Lonchura kelaarti

     Small flocks were observed near the trek path.
 

SIGNIFICANT BUTTERFLY SIGHTINGS

01. Southern Birdwing-Troides minus

     This endemic butterfly to Western Ghats and largest butterfly in India was observed

     near the trek path. A nectaring male butterfly was observed.

02. Common Emigrant-Catopsilia Pomona

      Oviposing female butterfly was observed.

 

03. Lesser Gull-Cepora nadina

     Singe specimens were observed near the trek path.

04. Dark Wanderer-Prenonia ceylonica

     Fast flying wandering male butterflies were observed near the open forest.

05. Common Fourring-Ypthima buebneri

      Most abundant butterfly seen in this trip.

06. Chestnut streaked Sailer-Neptis jumbah

      Basking individuals were observed

07. Plum Judy-Abisara echerius

     Single butterflies were observed in the wet patches

08. Common Pierrot-Castalius rosimon

     Individual butterflies sighted at open forest

09. Tamil Yeomen Cirrochroa thais

     This endemic butterfly to Western Ghats sighted at evergreen forest.

10. Zebra Blue-Leptotes plinius

     A single butterfly was seen sucking liquid from Sloth bear scat near the trek path.

11. Common Cerulean-Jamides celeno

     Most abundant blue species seen in this trip

12. Yalm Fly-Loxura atymnus

    Nectaring, Mudpuddling individuals were observed near the trek path

13. Fluffy-Tit –Zeltus amasa

     This cute curly tailed butterfly was seen near the trek path

14. Suffused Snow flat-Tagiades obseurus

     Basking individuals observed.

15. Golden Angle-Odontoptilum ransonnetti

      Basking male and female butterflies observed near the trek path

16. Chestnut Bob-Lambrix salsala

     Nectating butterflies were observed.

17. Coon-Psolos fuligo

     Most abundant skipper species observed in this trip.

18. Common Dartlet-Oriens goloides

     This tiny dartlet was observed in the undergrowth.

AMPHIBIANS

Golden Frog, Varicose frog, Skipper frog and Leaping frog species were some

of the significant amphibians seen in this trip.

REPTILES

Hump-nosed Pit-Viper, Bedome’s Keel-back and King Cobra were the

Significant reptile species observed in this trip.

I am grateful to Mr.K.A.Kishore, Mr.B.V.PremKrishnan, Mr.Rajkumar Unnithan, Mr.Rajan.Mr.Abiram Sankar and Mr.R.Sandeep for giving me enormous field support and encouragement throughout this trip.

 C.SUSANTH,PRAKRITI,SNRA-20,INDIRA NAGAR,PEROORKADA.P.O.THIRUVANANTHAPURAM-695005,KERALA,INDIA
c.susanth@gmail.com,susanth.c@gmail.com

Occurrence of Amathusia phidippus phidippus (Linnaeus) confirmed in southern India

Authors: C.Susanth, B.V.Premkrishnan and R.Murukesh.

Address: Prakriti, Indira Nagar, Peroorkada.P.O, Thiruvananthapuram 695005, Kerala, India .

Email: greyheadedbulbul@yahoo.co.in, csusanth@hotmail.com

Amathusia phidippus, the Palmking (Amathusiinae, Nymphalidae), is a widely distributed species in southeast Asia, the most widespread from the genus (Corbet & Pendlebury 1992). The species is concentrated around Sunda Islands, extending north to south Mynamar, west to Andaman Islands and east to the Philippines and Sulawesi (Moore 1893-96, Corbet & Pendlebury 1992). There has been a very old, doubtful report of this species from southern India , which is usually not considered in recent literature (see below). Here we report on the recent sightings of this species from southern Western Ghats, southern India , with a photographic evidence.

Malabar coast and neighbouring mountains of southern India, which also make the southern Western Ghats , is a diversity hotspot for butterflies. Many of the southeast Asian and northeast Indian species reported for southern India (eg. Hypolycaena othona, H.nilgirica, Zeltus amasa, Hasora taminatus and Arnetta mercara) or those endemic to southern Western Ghats (eg. Thoressa sitala and T. evershedi), are found only in this area. We found A.phidippus at two locations (approx.8^o5’-8^o55’N, 77^o5’-77^o15’E) near Thiruvananthapuram, Capital of the state of Kerala, which covers most of the Malabar coast and southern Western Ghats . The first was Palode, a small village situated 35km from Thiruvananthapuram and the second was Kattilappara, Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, 70km from Thiruvananthapuram. The vegetation at these localities is a mosaic of degraded evergreen, semi-evergreen and riverine forests, teak plantations and human settlements. We discovered them in July 2000 and May 2002. Both the individuals were fresh specimens. One was attracted to the electric lights in a forest house after the rains, we caught the second fluttering by the rotang (Calamus sp) straggler, which may be its larval host plant here (many of the palm-feeders, e.g Gangara thyrsis and Suastus gremius, feed on Calamus in the forested areas).

We confirmed that these specimens had not originated from the pupae accidentally brought in southern India with the Palms imported from southeast Asia. The only place in this region were palms from southeast Asia have been planted recently is Tropical Botanical Garden and Research Institute (TBGRI) at Palode. Dr.N. Mohanan, Head of Palms at TBGRI, informed us that all the southeast Asian species planted at TBGRI were propagated from seeds from Malaysia , which could not have carried any caterpillars or pupae.

Lepidoptera Indica ( Moore 1893-96), the first comprehensive work on Indian butterflies, did not mention A.phidippus for southern India, although the race A.p.andamanica from the Andaman Islands was known even at that time and Moore mentioned it. Other major books on the butterflies of this region (DENice’ville 1883 and Antram 1924; Talbot (1939 and’ 49) did not cover this subfamily) also did not mention any reports for A.phidippus  for southern India . However, both Evans(1932) and winter Blyth (1957) included this species for southern India, but Evans considered southern India race to be A.p. friderici Fruh and Andaman Islands race to be A.p.andamanica Fruh. Since Evans and Wynter- Blyth used the same old report, which was suspected to be a misidentification, and because there have been no new reports of this species from southern India in the past 50 years, the species was not included in the only recent work on the butterflies of the western Ghats (Gaonkar 1996). Here we provided the conclusive evidence that A.phidippus occurs in southern India . Moreover, the specimens we observed belong to the nominate southeast Asian race, not A.p.phidippus in having more extensive ochreous-yellow markings in both sexes and underside of the hindwing with a more or less complete series of five ocelli (Moore 1893-96). Our photograph clearly shows two ocelli, the distinctive features of A.p.phidippus. From this evidence, it appears that A.p.phidippus follows the pattern of disjunct distribution of many species of southeast Asian Butterflies. Distributions of these species extend to the north up to northern Mynamar and northeast India, and then isolated populations occur in southern Western Ghats (Evans 1932). Amathusia p.phidippus seems to be following a similar pattern, but the disjunction is extreme.

We thank Krushnamegh Kunte for identifying the species and providing all the information.

References:

 

Antram, C.B.1924. Butterflies of India . Thacker, Spink & Co., Clacutta and Simla.

Corbet, A.S. and H.M.Pendlebury.1992. The Butterflies of the Malay Peninsula.4^th edition revised by J.N.Eliot. Malayan Nature Society, Kuala Lumpur .

Evans,W.H.1932. The Identification of Indian Butterflies.2^nd edition. Bombay Natural History Society, Madras .

Gaonkar, H.1996. Butterflies of the Western Ghats, India (including Sri Lanka ): A Biodiversity Assessment of a Threatened Mountain Chain. Centre for Ecological Sciences, Banglore, India .

Moore.F. 1893-1896. Lepidoptera Indica. vol.II, Family Nymphalidae.L.Reeve and Co., London .

DENice’ville, L.1883. The Butterflies of India, Burma and Ceylon . Calcutta .

Talbot, G. 1939 and ’49. Fauna of British India, including Ceylon and Burma, Calcutta Natural History Society and Oxford University Press, Mumbai.

Wynter- Blyth, M.A.1957. Butterflies of the Indian Region. Bombay Natural History Society and Oxford University Press, Mumbai. 

 

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LIFE CYCLE OF TRAVANCORE EVENING BROWN-PARANTIRRHOEA MARSHALLI (SATYRINAE, NYMPHALIDAE)  OBSERVED AT ARIPPA AMMAYAMBALAM PACHA RESERVE FORESTS, KERALA, INDIA

 

C. Susanth¹, B.V. Premkrishnan² and R. Murukesh³

¹ Prakriti, SNRA-20, Indiranagar, Peroorkada P.O., Thiruvananthapuram-695005, Kerala. Email: c.susanth@gmail.com

² Vasantha Bhavan, Sathrakushi, Palode, Pacha P.O., Thiruvananthapuram-695662, Kerala. Email: papilio_krishna@yahoo.com

³ Thazhathuvila, Nalumukku, Pettah P.O., Thiruvananthapuram-695024, Kerala. Email: murukeshr@gmail.com

 

Travancore Evening Brown-Parantirrhoea marshalli is a rare and endemic butterfly to Western Ghats . Male: above, dark brown suffused deep rich violet with prominent violet purple band UPF, Female with two obscure narrow yellow bands and a series of white dots UPF (Wynter Blyth 1957). Travancore Evening Brown is among the rarest of Satyrinae butterflies of southern India .  The lone representative of the only genus in India and its nearest relative is in America .  It is endemic to the Western Ghats and an inhabitant of reed thickets or jungles and dense evergreen undergrowth.

            Parantirrhoea marshalli has been considered very rare (W.H.Evans,1932) ever since it was first discovered by F.H.Ferguson in 1870 from the Ashambu Hills in the southern tip of the Western Ghats . Though collected by F.H.Ferguson, the species was first described by Wood Mason (1881) from four specimens, one kept in the Calcutta Museum and the other three in the private collection of G.F.L.Marshall , the co-author of ‘Butterflies of India Burma & Ceylon.  It is indeed after Marshall that the species is named.

            A one year field study on behaviour,status and distribution of this endemic species conducted by us began in April, 2005  at Ponmudi Hills(Kerala part of Ashambu Hills), Umayar, Dharbhakulam and Kattilappara forest regions of Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary(Kollam District,Kerala) and Arippa Ammayambalam pacha Reserve Forests in Kulathupuzha (bordering Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram Districts of Kerala). Here we report the Life Cycle of Travancore Evening Brown from Arippa Ammayambalam pacha Reserve Forests..

            The Life Cycle study of the species was carried out in the Arippa Ammayambalam Pacha Reserve Forests lying within 77° 1’ 45” to 77° 2’ 50” E and 8° 49’to 8° 35’ N, lowland evergreen forests of the Western Ghats , in Kulathupuzha reserve forests, 52 km from Thiruvananthapuram city. The vegetation is a mosaic of degraded evergreen and semi evergreen forests and Myristica Swamps.

            We observed oviposing female on Ochlandra rheedi .The eggs were laid in singly and in batch of 3-4 eggs.  We collected the eggs and reared it.

Eggs: The egg is round and white. The eggs observed were laid on underside of Ochlandra leaves close to the ground (up to one foot). The colour of eggs becomes dull or shabby white in later days.

Caterpillars/Larvae : The caterpillar was bright grass/apple green with little yellow tint, spindle shaped with a pair of bright yellow lines on the  back and thin yellow lines on the lower side of the body.  The head is pale green and a thick yellow strip/line was seen in the centre of the head.  The head is little pointed but no horns. In early instars the caterpillars have tiny hair on its body. When it rest the caterpillars flattened its head to the surface of the leaf and merged with the surroundings. This time the line passed through the centre of the head and the yellow lines conjoined and shown as a singe long yellow line from top to bottom of the caterpillar.  The caterpillar had a single long spiny tail. The colour of the tip of the spiny tail was reddish brown. The caterpillar remains stretched and flattened the head to the underside of the leaf during day time.

            The overall colouration, appearance and in some feature the caterpillars of Parantirrhoea marshalli may overlooked with the caterpillars of Tamil Tree Brown-Lethe drypetis. But the caterpillar of Tamil Tree brown can be easily identified by its outward pointed head and pointed spiny tail as a line. On other hand in resting posture the Travancore Evening Brown Caterpillars flattened its head and spiny tail to the leaf surface and camouflaged with the surroundings. The Yellow strip on the centre of the head, single long spiny tail and pair of yellow lines on the back are the distinguishing features of caterpillars of Travancore Evening Brown.

In final instars the colour of caterpillar change as bright apple green and the yellow lines on the back become more thick and shown as a single strip from head to spiny tail. The caterpillar lives in singly.  The caterpillars hatched from batches of eggs live gregariously and pupated nearby. The caterpillar rest underside the Ochlandra leaves in rib. The gregarious caterpillars had seen rest one by one on the leaf rib during the daytime. The caterpillars remain stretched and motionless with flattened head and spiny tail on the rib of   leaves (underside). It is very difficult to find the caterpillars from the rib of Ochlandra leaves. It is a typical example of a perfect camouflage. Caterpillars fed mainly at late hours and night. Occasionally they fed on bright sunny daytime. We observed three caterpillars in congregation feed on Ochlandra rheedi during bright sunny noon. After active feeding they were seen resting underside of leaf end; well merged with the natural surroundings.

The larvae have bright apple/parrot green colour, spindle-shaped, with pale yellow striped green head. The yellow strip on centre of its head and bright yellow thick line over the back of the body and long single reddish brown spiny tale are the significant identification marks of the caterpillar of this rare satyrinae butterfly species of southern India .

            The length of final instars caterpillar was 52mm. Roughly two day before pupation the colour of caterpillar changes as smooth transparent light pink or light chocolate pink colour. The yellow strip on its head and yellow line over the back and bright green colour disappeared. This time the length of the caterpillar shrink as 47mm.

The caterpillar anchored rib of underside leaves and near to stem.

Pupa: The pupa occurred in two colourations. Light pinkish sandal colour and pale dry leaf brownish sandal colour. In both colourations some faint tiny lines, markings and spots made of reddish brown or brown is observed. A reddish brown or dark brown line is also observed the back of the pupa. Pupae are 10 mm long with a maximum circumference of 5mm and smooth, short ands stout with a small hump on the thorax. They hung freely, attached the support by means of claspers. Pupation period was 7-8 days and the adults always emerged during the early half of the day between 10.30 am and 11.30 am.

Imago:   The wingspan of the newly emerging male butterfly is 50-60mm. The male is dark blue/deep burnish violet, brownish base and with a light sky blue crescent shaped band on Forewing. The overall colour of Hind wing is faint violet wash and brownish base areas. The sharp edged tails on hind wings are the identification mark of adult butterfly from other evening brown species found in this region. The undersides of both wings are pale dead leaf brown with deeper brown speckling. The body length of male is 15mm and it is dark brown.

The wing span of female is 50-62 mm. The female is slightly larger than male. It is pale coffee brown bordering with sandal brown. The white spots and crescents either visible or obscure in female. The female have also sharp edged tail on hind wing. The under wings of female butterfly have a dark coffee brown bar/thick line from the tornus of hind wing to the apex of the forewing. The body length of female is 16mm. The body is pale brown. In our observations male outnumbered females in all two broods we observed. The presence of adults of Parantirrhoea marshalli is mostly observed in reed thickets and dense undergrowth of wet evergreen forests. The presence of female is higher than male. The male spend most of the time in higher roosts. The female always keep low or medium perches. This is the primary cause of lesser records of occurrence of male compared to the presence of female. The presence of eggs, larvae and pupae were watched in the Ochlandra rheedi grown near the rivulets, small forest streams and in myristica swamps. The eggs were observed in small reeds just one foot from the ground. Caterpillars and pupae were observed in reed leaves between 5-6 feet from the floor. The reed thickets in forest streams were infested with caterpillars of Travancore Evening brown during late April, May, June and July. The monsoons also have a vital role in the natural history of this endemic butterfly of Western Ghats .

 In this note we presented the detailed account of the biology of this Western Ghats endemic satyrinae butterfly. However habitat requirements, population, conservation status remain unknown for this Western Ghats endemic species. The chronological study of this rare endemic species will be conducted for implementing proper conservation efforts to protect this species.

Acknowledgements We are thankful to Mr.S.S.Anoop who extended field support and encouragement. We are thankful to Mr.C.Susheelkumar and Mr.Nibu Jacob for comments on an earlier draft of the manuscript. We acknowledge the constant moral support of Mr.Krushnamegh Kunthe, author of ‘Butterflies of Peninsular India’, through his inspiring emails. References

 

D’Abrera, B.L.1985.Butterflies of the Oriental region Part II, Hill House, Australia

 

Evans, W.H.1932. The identification of the Indian Butterflies. The Bombay Natural History Society and Oxford University Press, Mumbai.

 

Wood-Mason, A.1881.Parantirrhoea, Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society of Bengal, Part ii, 29(4): 248-250

 

Wynter Blyth, M, A.1957. Butterflies of the Indian Region. Oxford University Press and Bombay Natural History Society, Mumbai

 

 

 

BIRDING AND BUTTERFLYING AT VAZHACHAL-ATHIRAPILLI RESERVE FORESTS

 

 

My friend S.S.Anooj (Bird, Butterfly and Amphibian enthusiast) and I conducted a Bird, Butterfly and Amphibian study at Vazhachal-Athirapilli Reserved Forests during 2^_ 4^th January 2007.

            Vazhacal-Atirapilli Reserve Forests is about 41.944 squre kilometer, lying within 10˚15’ latitude and 76˚55’ longitude (Chalakkudy, Kerala, India ). The Parambikulam, the Sholayar and the Karappara river valleys converge at Orukombankutty from where the main Chalakkudi River starts.  Generally the terrain is hilly and highly undulating with subsidiary valleys.

            Vazhachal-Athirapilli Reserve Forests has been reported for a rare abundance of endemic flora and fauna. The main vegetation includes large tracks of tropical rain forests, moist deciduous forest, semi evergreen forests and monoculture teak plantations.

            The Chalakkudi River with its perennial supply of water is the main source of drainage. It is formed by the confluence of three major streams viz Parambikulam River , Sholayar and Karappara River . The other streams in this division which joins the Chalakkudipuzha are Charpathodu the Mannankuzhithodu and Muppilipuzha. The two important waterfalls Vazhachal and Athirapilli attract travelers all over the world.

            The mean temperature varies from 16˚C to 35˚C. In the hills temperature drops to less than 13˚C. The Vazhachal gets the benefit of both the South-West monsoon from June onwards and North-West monsoon from October. The months from January to April are practically without rainfall and summer showers occur in May.

BIRDS

 

We stayed in Forest Inspection Bungalow at Charppa Check post. The transects we selected for our study were Charppa-Vazhachal-Iron bridge-Puliyilappara (10kms approx), Anakayam-Vachumaram-Sidha Pocket (8km approx), Athirapilli-Kannankuzhithodu (6 km approx). Bird diversity is very high in VAzhachal-Puliyilappara and Athirapilli-Kannankuzhithodu region during the study period.  70 species are recorded within a duration of 30 minutes in the morning session. This reveals the bird diversity of the and its importance.

            125 species of birds were recorded in the selected areas during the study period. The hunting parties of birds were very active in Vazhachal-Iron Bridge-Puliyilappara region and Anakayam-Vachumaram region. Bird of prey presence was comparatively low. Occurrences of nocturnal birds were also less.

            Malabar Pied Hornbill, locally known as “Pandan Vezhambal”, a threatened and endangered bird regularly observes at Charppa-Vazhachal Iron Bridge zone.  We observed two birds in full breeding plumage.  Great Indian Hornbill (locally known “Malamuzhakki’), honoured as the State Bird, is a threatened bird species of Kerala was observed at Kannankuzhithodu. Other important species recorded were Malabar Trogon, Blue-bearded Bee-eater, Green Imperal Pigeon, Crested Goshawk, Black-naped Oriole, Drongo Cuckoo, Wayanad Laughing Thrush, Forest Eagle Owl and Black Wood Pecker. The endemic birds to Western Ghats sighted in this forest area include Malabar Grey Hornbill, Malabar Parakeet, White-bellied Blue Flycatcher, Small Sunbird, Niligiri Pipit, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Grey-headed Bullbul and Nilgiri Flycatcher.

            Lesser Fish Eagle and Large Hawk Cuckoo are the two new bird species recorded at Vazhachal during our present study.

SIGNIFICANT SIGHTINGS

 

01.  Red Spurfowl – Galloperdix spadicea

Small groups were seen at Vazhachal-Iron bridge region and Puliyilappara.

02.  White-bellied Woodpecker – Dryocopus javensis

A noisy pair was observed at Puliyilappara.

      03. Malabar Pied Hornbill- Anthracoceros coronatus

            A pair was regularly observes at Charppa and Vazhachal Iron bridge region.

      04. Great Indian Hornbill –Buceros bicornis

            A single bird was seen at Kannankuzhithodu.It was feed on fruiting ficus tree near

            the river.

      05. Malabar Trogon- Harpactes erythrocephalus

            Malabar Trogon was observed in all transects. Male birds outnumbered females.

      06. Blue-bearded Bee-eater – Nyctyornis athertoni

            This rather uncommon forest Bee-eater was sighted at Poringalkuthu.

      07. Crested Tree Swift – Hemiprocne coronata

            Small noisy groups were seen soaring overhead at Kannankuzhithodu.

 

      08. Spot-bellied Eagle Owl – Bubo nipalensis

 

            A bird was seen perched on a tree near the trek path at Poringalkuthu-Puliyilapara

            region.

      09. Brown Fish Owl – Ketupa zeylonensis

            Brown Fish Owl was sighted at Kannankuzhithodu during daytime.

     10. Lesser Fish Eagle –Ichthyophaga humilis

            Lesser Fish Eagle rather an uncommon raptor was recorded at Vazhachal-

            Porngalkuthu region.

     11. White-bellied Tree Pie – Dendrocitta leucogastra

            Large flocks of this endemic bird was observed at Poringalkuthu-

            Puliyilappara-Vachumaram road.

     12. Black-naped Oriole – Oriolous chinensis

            An abundant winter visitor observed at Charppa-Vazhachal Iron bridge region.

     13. Blue-capped Rock Thrush- Monticola cinclorhynchus

            Common winter visitor observed at Poringalkuthu-Puliyilappara

            -Anakayam region.

     14. Eurasian Black-bird – Turdus merula

            Small flocks seen at Vachumaram region.

     15. Brown-breasted Flycatcher – Muscicapa muttui

            Most abundant winter visitor observed in Vazhachal Reserve Forests.

     16. White-bellied Blue Flycatcher – Cyornis  pallipes

 

            This endemic flycatcher was observed in wet evergreen undergrowth of

            Kannankuzhithodu and Vazhachal  Iron bridge  region.

     17. Grey-headed Bulbul- Pycnonotus priocephalus

            The ‘whee-tee’ call of this cute endemic bulbul reverberated the thick

            Undergrowth of Vazhachal Reserve Forests.

     18. Large-billed Leaf Warbler – Phylloscopus magnirostris

            Large –billed Leaf Warbler is the most abundant winter visitor observed in

            Vazhachal Reserve Forests.

   19. Grey-breasted Laughing Thrush-Garrulax jerdoni fairbanki

            Small flocks observed at Anakayam region

   20. Little Spider hunter- Arachnothera longirostra

            Observed in wet forests.

BUTTERFLIES

 

 

            Butterflies were very active during sunny hours. Small congregation of mud puddling Common Albatross, Emigrants, Blue Bottles and Five-bar Swordtails were observed near wet patches. The streambed is infested with several species of butterflies. Important species observed were Leaf Blue, Fluffy Tit,Common treeflitter,Red Helen, Shiva Sunbeam, Malabar banded Swallowtail and Blue Mormon.

Riparian fringe forests attract species of  Papilio(Monmons and Helens), Graphium(Jays and Blue Bottle) Appias (Albatrosses and Puffins), Melanitis (Evening Browns), Neptis(sailers),Euthalia(Barons), Euploea(crows), Prosotas(Lineblues), Arhopala(Oak blues) and Hesperiida(White banded Awl, Tree flitter) .90 species were observed. The sighting of Malabar banded Swallowtail and endemic and endangered butterfly to Western Ghats is significant. The Tawny Rajah one of the most powerful and impressive insect of South India (rather uncommon species) was observed at Charppa. Other significant observations were Malabar banded Peacock, Five-bar Swordtail, and Cruiser, Common Imperial, Malabar Raven, Golden Tree Flitter, Dark Wanderer and Blackvein sergeant.

SIGNIFICANT SPECIES

 

    01. Southern Birdwing – Troides minos

 

            This largest  and endemic butterfly was observed all regions.

    02.Malabar Rose- Pachliopta pandiyana

            This endangered and endemic butterfly was observed at wet undergrowth.

    03. Five-bar swordtail – Graphium nomius

            Mud puddling  individuals were observed with the small congregation of mud

            Puddling Common Albatross.

    04. Malabar banded Swallowtail –Papilio liomedon Moore

            This strong flier and endemic species to Western Ghats were observed at wet

            evergreen patches.

   05. Malabar banded Peacock – Papilio Buddha

            This cute endemic butterfly was observed at Puliyilappara,Vachumaram and

            Anakayam region.

   06. Painted Sawtooth –Prioneris sita

            Individual butterflies were seen mudpuddling near forest streams.

   07. Dark Wanderer – Pareronia valeria

            The forest dweller was observed at thick evergreen region.

   08. Tamil Lacewing – Cethosia nietneri

            This endemic butterfly  was observed in all regions.

   09. Cruiser- Vindula erota

            This gorgeous butterfly was seen at riverine region. Basking and mud puddling individuals was a feast to our eyes.

   10. Tawny Rajah –Charaxes bernardus

 

            Basking male and female butterflies were observed at Charppa-Iron bridge region.

   11. Clipper – Parthenos Sylvia

            This beautiful butterfly was commonly observed in  Charpa, Poninkalkuthu,

            Vachumaram and Kannankuzhithodu region.

   12. Nilgiri Tiger – Parantica nilgiriensis

            This endemic butterfly was observed at Vachumaram and Anakayam region.

   13. Banded Blue Pierrot – Dis colampa ethion

            This tiny endemic blue butterfly was observed at wet patches. Mud

            Puddling small groups were observed near the forest patch at Kannankuzhithodu.

   14. Dark Cerulean – Jamides bochus

 

            This glistening blue butterfly was observed at open forests of Charppa- Iron

            Bridge region.

   15. Western Centaur Oakblue – Arhopala amantes

            Western  Centaur Oakblue, the largest oakblue species found in Kerala was

            Observed at Kannankuzhithodu.

   16. Water Snow Flat- Tagiades litigiosa

            Common flat species observed at Vazhachal Reserve forests.

   17. Common banded Demon- Notocrypta  paralysos

            Most abundant hesperiidae species observed.

   18. Golden Tree Flitter – Quedara basiflava

            This endemic hesperiidae species to Western Ghats observed at wet evergreen

            Forests of Vachumaram-Anayakayam region.

AMPHIBIANS

 

 

Vazhachal-Athirapilli Reserve Forests has an exceptionally diverse assortment of

Amphibians.20 species of amphibians were identified in our studies. A comprehensive study of the amphibian fauna in Vazhachal-Athirapilli Reserve Forests reveal many interesting even unrecorded species.Rana temporalis, Varicose  Frog-Rana keralansis,White-nosed bush frog-Philautus leucorhnus ,Indian Paddy field frog-Linnonectus liannocaris  Common Tree frog-Polypedatus maculates and Bedomie’s Leaping frog were some significant species recorded during our study.

THREATS

 

The proposed Athirappilli Hydel Project may cause serious impacts/damages on the Vazhachal-Athirapillli Reserve Forests. If the Athirapilli Hydel Project turns to be a reality, the last remaining habitat of Malabar pied Hornbill; the rarest and endangered bird of Kerala will vanish forever. The bio-diversity of the reserve forest, particularly the avifauna, would be adversely affected the hydel project.

 

ACKNOWLDEGEMENT

 

We are grateful to Shri.Muraleedharan, Wildlife Warden of Vazhachal forest Division for provide all facilities and assistance to conduct this study at Vazhachal-Athirappili reserve forests. We are thankful to all field staff of Charppa Forest Check post for giving support and encouragement

.

REFERENCE

 

1. Warblers and Waders, 2001. Birds of Athirapilli-Vazhachal-A Survey Report 2001.
2. Dr.Salim Ali and S.D.Ripley- A Handbook of the Birds of India and Pakistthan, Bomnbay Natural History Society, Mumbai.
3. Wynter Blyth, M, A.1957. Butterflies of the Indian Region. Oxford University Press and Bombay Natural History society, Mumbai.
4. Kunte Krushnamegh, 2000. Butterflies of Peninsular India, University Press ( India ) limited, Hydrabad.
5. Ranjith Daniel, Frogs of Peninsular India, University Press ( India ) limited, Hydrabad.

         For more details : c.susanth@gmail.com,csusanth@yahoo.co.in

                                     anoojss@gmail.com ,prinha04@yahoo.co.in

                                                                                                                                                                                   

   

  

           

I had an opportunity to stay at
Silent Valley National Park during 7^th to 10^th December 2006 in connection with a bird survey conducted by Department of Forests and Wildlife, Kerala and Kerala Natural History Society. I stayed at Neelikkal, southern part of the National Park. The Silent Valley National Park (Kerala,India) is a  unique preserve of natural rain forests within an area of 89.52 sq.km, it houses a rich mosaic of varied habitats.Neelikkal is situated in southern end of the National Park. The habitat of Neelikkal consists of dense evergreen forests, small patches of shoal forests and grass lands (high altitude of Ambalappara and Vanamppara). The weather was cool in the early fore-noon hours and hot in mid days. 

BUTTERFLIES 

Butterflies were very active during sunny hours. Fringes of evergreen forests, riparian forests, mixed forests and grasslands were teemed with flying jewels. Mud puddling Maps, Dark Pierrots, White Hedge Blues, Plain puffins and Common Albatross were observed near wet patches. Large congregation of Dark Blue Tigers, Double branded Crows and Common Crows were seen at Grasslands. Dancing Malabar Tree Nymphs wee abundantly sighted in wet evergreen forests (near the camp shed at Neelikkal). Basking individuals were also observed. Southern Birdwings were also abundant. Spot Puffins were seen at higher elevations of Vannamppara. 78 species were observed.

SIGNIFICANT SIGHTINGS  01.  Southern Birdwing – Troides minos

Common in evergreen canopy.

02.  Malabar banded Peacock – Papilio Buddha

Sighted at Neelikkal-Vannamppara region.

03.  Painted Sawtooth – Prioneris sita

Seen near the streams

      04. Plain Puffin – Appias indra

            Small congregations were observed mud puddling in the wet patches.

05. Spot Puffin- Appias lalage

Observed in higher altitude of Vannamppara.

06.  Dark Wanderer – Pareronia ceylanica

Individuals were observed in evergreen regions.

07.  Great Evening Brown – Melanitis zitenius

Observed in he undergrowth of Neelikkal-Pathrakadavu region

08.  White-Bar bush Brown – Mycalesis perseus

Commonly seen at Nileekkal-Pathrakadavu region.

09.  Cruiser- Vindula erota

Basking and mud puddling individuals were observed at Pathrakadavu.

10.  Chestnut-streaked Sailer- Neptis jumbah

This butterfly observed in all transects.

11.  Clipper – Parthenos Sylvia

Common species seen in the evergreen region.

12.  Dark Blue Tiger – Tirumala septentrionis

Dozens of individual butterflies were seen gathered on Greater Rattle Pod – Crotalaria leschenaultia plants grown on the grasslands of Vannamppara.

13.  Nilgiri Tiger – Parantica nilgiriensis

This endemic species was observed in the higher elevations of Vannamppara and

Ambalappara.

14.  Double-branded Crow – Euploea Sylvester

Small congregations were observed in Greater Rattle Pod with King Crow and Dark Blue Tiger.

15.  Malabar Tree Nymph – Idea malabarica

One of the abundant species observed in Neelikkal region.

16.  Dark Pierrot – Tarucus ananda

Mud puddling small groups was observed at Pathrakadavu thodu.

17.  White-Hedge Blue – Udara akasa

A common Lycaenidae (blue) species observed in wet patches.

      18. Dark Cerulean – Jamides bochus

            This tiny butterfly observed in all transects.

19. Aberrant Oakbue – Amblypodia abseus

Individual butterflies were observed in wet undergrowth at Neelikkal.

      20. Indian Red Flash – Rapala jarbus

            This cute butterfly seen at Vannamppara area.

      21. Plum Judy – Abisara echerius

            Plum judies were observed at fringes of evergreen and grasslands.

      22. Common Spotted Flat – Celaenorrhinus leucocera

            This Hesperiidae (skipper) species seen at Neelikkal-Pathrakadavu area.

      23. Restricted Demon – Notocrypta cruvifascia

            Observed in dense evergreen region.

      24. Coon – Sancus pulligo

            Abundant in wet evergreen undergrowth.

      25. Madras Ace – Halpe honorei

            This skipper observed in mixed forests.

A Moon Moth observed near the small brook at Neelikkal Camp shed. The insect was perched on a small moss covered rock from morn to evening.

AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES 

Silvirana (species-Temporalis) was most abundant species observed near the streams. The mating, egg lying was also observed. Indrana species were also observed in the wet undergrowth. Buto microtimphanous an endangered toad was also observed. Green whip snake and Draco were the reptiles observed in this region.

MAMMALS

Troops of Lion-tailed Macaque were observed near the camp shed at Neelikkal and Pathrakadavu. Troops of Nilgiri Langur and Bonnet Macaque were also sighted. Mouse Deer, Barking Deer and Sambar Deer, Wild Boar and Gaur were observed.

ACKNOWLDGEMENT

I am grateful Mr.K.V.Uthamman, Wildlife Warden for arranging this Bird Survey and Adv.L.Namashivayan for well organized the survey. I am thankful to field staff of Kerala Forest Department at Neelikkal who extended full hearted field support, hospitality and field assistance they provide us. I am thankful to Dr.Anil Zacharius for identify and provide details of amphibians seen at Neelikkal and field encouragement. I express my sincere gratitude to Mr.Thripthy.G.Thomas,Mr.Vinayan,Mr.J.Retnakaran and Mr.P.D.Prasad who extended field support and encouragement, I am thankful to my friend Mr.Nibu Jacob who spare his digital camera for taking amazing and memorable pictures of the Silent Valley National Park.

 

    

Malabar Tree Nymph Idea malabarica Moore is a butterfly endemic to semi-evergreen and evergreen forests of Western Ghats of south-western India. In the larval stages, it is considered a monophagous species on Aganosma cymos (Kunte 2000; Wynter-Blyth 1957). In this note, I report a previously unknown host plant for this species.

            Malabar Tree Nymph is a common sight at Arippa Ammayambalam pacha

 In Kulathupuzha Reserve Forests and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary (c.8º-8º 5-8º 55’ N 77º 15’ E) near Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. The vegetation is a mosaic of degraded evergreen and semi-evergreen forests and Myristica swamps. On July 16, 1996, during my visit to this area, I observed a female oviposing on Parsonsia spiralis (Apocynaceae). Parsonsia is a creeper-straggler found in mangrove, riverine moist deciduous and evergreen forests and Myristica swamps. I collected the eggs and successfully reared butterflies form them. Since then, I have repeatedly collected caterpillars from this plant and reared them successfully. It seems, therefore, the Parsonsia spiralis is a stable larval host of this butterfly in this area. It is, however, not known whether Aganosma is also used here.

            Malabar Tree nymph co-occurs with Parsonsia in other forests in southern Western Ghats. It is possible that it uses this plant in these patches as well, but that usage of this host plant has gone unnotices. Given that this is an endemic and endangered butterfly, it will be important to delineate geographic boundaries or overlap between usage of its two known host plants as this may provide us with an insight into its evolution. It will also be interesting to explore the possibility that it is uses other Apocynaceae species in other smaller habitat pockets.

 
ACKNOLEDGMENTS 

            I am grateful to Prof.N.Ravi, former professor of Botany of Sree Narayana College, Kollam (Kerala) and Dr.K.N.Subramanian (Director (retd), ICRE, Coimbatore) for identifying and confirming the species. I am thankful to Mr.K.Rafeek, Mr.K.A.Kishore, Mr.B.V.Premkrishnan and Mr.R.Murukesh who extended full field support ant encouragement.

July 31, 2003                                                                           C.SUSANTH

                                                                         Prakriti, Indira Nagar, Peroorkada.P.O

                                                            Thiruvananthapuram 695005, Kerala, India.

                                                                                    Email :csusanth@hotmail.com

REFERENCES

Kunte,K. (2000) : Butterflies of Peninsular India. University Press, Hyderabad, and

                              Indian Academy of Sciences, Bangalore.

Wynter-Blyth, M.A. (1957) : Butterflies of the Indian Region. Bombay Natural History

                                                Society, Mumbai

J.Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc., 102(3),Sep- Dec 2005