Butterfly Walk at Carambolim Lake

Butterfly watching offers a unique way to connect with nature, and on August 10th, a group of enthusiasts gathered at Carambolim Lake for a butterfly walk that proved to be both exciting and rewarding. Despite the overcast sky, the day was filled with fascinating sightings and shared moments of discovery. This post recounts the experience, highlights the butterfly species observed, and shares practical tips for anyone interested in exploring butterfly habitats.

The Setting: Carambolim Lake on a Cloudy Day

Carambolim Lake is a well-known freshwater lake located in Goa, India. It serves as a habitat for a variety of bird species, aquatic life, and insects, including butterflies. On the day of the walk, the sky was covered with clouds, casting a soft, diffused light over the landscape. This kind of weather can sometimes reduce butterfly activity, but it did not deter the participants.

The lake’s surroundings, with patches of grass, shrubs, and flowering plants, created an ideal environment for butterflies to feed and rest. The gentle breeze and cooler temperature made the walk comfortable, encouraging everyone to take their time observing the delicate creatures.

Butterfly Species Sighted During the Walk

The walk revealed a diverse range of butterfly species, each with unique colors and patterns. Here are some of the notable butterflies spotted:

• Evening Brown (Melanitis leda)

This butterfly is known for its camouflaged wings that resemble dead leaves. It often rests with its wings closed, blending into the background. The Evening Brown was seen fluttering close to the ground and occasionally settling on tree trunks.

• Great Eggfly (Hypolimnas bolina)

Recognizable by its striking black wings with white spots and iridescent blue patches, the Great Eggfly was a highlight for many participants. It was observed basking in the sunlight when occasional breaks in the clouds allowed rays to reach the ground.

• Dark-blue Tiger (Tirumala septentrionis)

This species features dark blue wings with lighter blue stripes, giving it a tiger-like appearance. The Dark-blue Tiger was spotted near flowering plants, feeding on nectar.

• Other Species

Besides these, several other butterflies were seen, including the Common Mormon, Plain Tiger, and various skippers. Each added to the richness of the experience and provided opportunities for photography and identification practice.