Nestled within the sprawling 17-acre campus of Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 1 in Jalahalli West, Bangalore, lies a magical sanctuary known as the Butterfly Park. This verdant haven, bursting with vibrant hues and delicate wings, is home to an astounding 125 species of butterflies, making it a living tapestry of natural beauty and biodiversity.
The story of the Butterfly Park began several years ago, born out of a visionary initiative by the school’s faculty and students. They sought to create an environment where nature and education could coexist harmoniously, fostering a deeper connection between the students and the natural world. The idea was simple yet profound: to transform a part of their lush campus into a butterfly garden that would attract and sustain a wide variety of butterfly species.
The first step was to cultivate a diverse range of flowering plants, shrubs, and trees that would provide the necessary nectar and habitats for the butterflies. The students, guided by their teachers and local botanists, planted vibrant lantanas, marigolds, zinnias, and ixoras. They also included host plants like milkweed, passionflower, and citrus, which are crucial for caterpillars to thrive. This careful planning paid off as the garden soon blossomed into a thriving ecosystem.
As the seasons changed, the Butterfly Park began to attract its winged visitors. The first butterflies to arrive were the common and resilient species like the Plain Tiger and the Common Mormon. But as the garden matured, rarer species started to make their appearance. The sight of the majestic Blue Mormon fluttering gracefully or the brilliant Common Jezebel sipping nectar became a common delight for the students.
One of the most enchanting aspects of Butterfly Park is the way it engages the students of Kendriya Vidyalaya. From the youngest primary schoolers to the senior students, everyone takes part in the upkeep and study of this natural treasure. Biology classes are often held in the park, where students observe the life cycle of butterflies up close, from eggs to caterpillars, pupae, and finally, the emergence of adult butterflies. The park has also become a living laboratory for research projects and environmental studies.