In a first-of-its-kind event, Sikkim, a Himalayan state smaller than Puerto Rico, hosted its inaugural Butterthon, a 16-day butterfly-watching marathon from May 1–16, to mark its 50th year of statehood. The event, organized by the Butterfly Society of Sikkim–TPCF, drew international scientists, local conservationists, and tourists, spotlighting the region’s staggering biodiversity: 60% of India’s butterfly species thrive here, crammed into just 7,086 square kilometers.
Forget traditional parades or fireworks—Sikkim celebrated its golden jubilee by showcasing its natural wealth. “This isn’t just about butterflies; it’s about our identity,” said a spokesperson for the Butterfly Society. The event aimed to position Sikkim as a global hub for eco-tourism and inspire youth to pursue careers in conservation.
The Butterthon: A Race Against Time and for Science
Participants, including Dr. Peter Lobo (India), Joseph Coleman Thompson Jr. (U.S.), and Indika Upul Jayatissa (Sri Lanka), trekked through Sikkim’s valleys and high-altitude trails, documenting species like the Chocolate-bordered Flitter (Zographetus dzonguensis), a newly discovered butterfly named after Dzongu, its habitat.
The marathon wasn’t just recreational—it was a citizen-science initiative. Data collected will help track climate impacts on butterfly populations, crucial for a state where rising temperatures threaten fragile ecosystems.
Why Sikkim? The Science Behind the Wings
Sikkim’s biodiversity is unmatched:
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Dzongu Valley alone hosts 420 butterfly species—60.95% of Sikkim’s total—documented over a decade by local researcher Sonam Wangchuk Lepcha.
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The Blue Duke, declared Sikkim’s state butterfly in 2022, symbolizes conservation efforts.
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Kitam Bird Sanctuary, a low-elevation refuge, shelters endangered species like the Kaiser-i-Hind, a swallowtail butterfly.
“People laughed when I chased butterflies,” admitted Sonam, whose 10-year study revealed Dzongu’s ecological significance. “But these wings carry our heritage”.
Global Attention and Local Impact
The Butterthon’s success has broader implications:
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Eco-Tourism Boost: Sikkim aims to replicate Costa Rica’s model, where butterfly tourism generates $400 million annually. Homestays in Dzongu reported 30% higher bookings during the event.
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Youth Engagement: The Butterfly Society trained locals like Mingdup Lepcha and Puja Rai as guides, proving conservation can be a viable career.
Challenges: Balancing Growth and Conservation
Despite progress, threats loom:
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Habitat Loss: Road expansions and dams fragment forests. Sikkim has 31% protected forest cover, but encroachments persist.
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Climate Change: Unpredictable monsoons disrupt breeding cycles, as observed in neighboring Bhutan.
The Road Ahead: From Butterflies to a Blueprint
Sikkim’s government plans to:
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Expand the Butterthon annually, adding routes in Khangchendzonga National Park.
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Launch a “Butterfly Trail” linking Dzongu, Kitam, and Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary.
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Partner with NABA (North American Butterfly Association) to share data on migratory patterns.
Conclusion: Small State, Big Legacy
As Sikkim’s Butterthon ends, its message lingers: conservation isn’t a burden—it’s an economic and cultural asset. For a state that banned plastic bottles in 2016 and aims to be India’s first organic farming state, butterflies are the next frontier.
“Next time you’re here,” Sonam says, “look closer. These wings aren’t just pretty, they’re powering our future”.
