The recent faunal survey at Karimpuzha Wildlife Sanctuary revealed exciting biodiversity growth. Held from January 22 to 25 by the State Forest Department with help from STEAR and TNHS, the team recorded 171 bird species, 177 butterfly species, and 42 odonates. Notably, eight bird species were seen for the first time here. These include the Grey heron, Grey-headed fish eagle, Tawny-bellied babbler, Blue rock thrush, Yellow wagtail, Eurasian hoopoe, Common hawk cuckoo, and Barn owl. This raises the bird count in the sanctuary to 247 since it was formed five years ago. Butterflies also saw a jump, with 20 new species recorded, pushing total butterfly species to 223. Important finds included Black angle, Common grass dart, Indian dartlet, Moore’s ace, and more. Researchers noted that butterflies like the Common albatross migrate seasonally across different heights within the sanctuary. Seven new odonates were discovered, such as Merogomphus tamaracherriensis and Rhodothemis rufa. Now, 63 odonate species live in this area. The survey also listed moths, 70 spider types, and many freshwater fish species. “Encounters with elephant herds and other mammals further underscored the ecological integrity and habitat continuity of the sanctuary,” said Karimpuzha Wildlife Warden Dhanik Lal. He added, “The findings will directly support future management, habitat protection and monitoring initiatives.” STEAR’s Sabari Janaki praised the teamwork of researchers, NGOs, and forest staff, saying it helped create top-quality data vital for conservation. The survey involved 42 people from South India and took place across eight camps covering all major habitat types in the sanctuary. Karimpuzha Wildlife Sanctuary, in Nilambur Forest Division, covers 227.21 sq. km. Since its start in 2020, its varied landscape—from low forests to mountain ecosystems—has made it a hotspot of rich wildlife.