The Butterfly Garden Establishment Project was successfully implemented in two phases on 25th May and 10th June 2025 at the Diyagama Forest Area. This initiative united students, volunteers, and partner organizations committed to urban biodiversity conservation.
Phase 1 – 25th May
The project commenced with the enthusiastic participation of students and volunteers from the Botanical Society of the University of Colombo (BOTSOC), in collaboration with the Urban Biodiversity Alliance – Sri Lanka (UBASL). The team prepared the site and laid the foundation for a butterfly sanctuary.
Phase 2 – 10th June
The garden was successfully completed with the generous support of Urban Biodiversity Alliance – Sri Lanka (UBASL), Major General Thushara Harasgama, Youth for Change, Silueta Pvt. Ltd. (MAS Holdings), the Scouts and Environmental Pioneers of St. Peter’s College – Kotte, Himidiri Aruna Pre School, Save Diyagama Forest Society, and many dedicated volunteers
Why Butterflies Matter ?
Butterflies are highly sensitive bio-indicators of environmental health. Over 57 butterfly species have been recorded in the Diyagama Forest, including several endemic and nationally threatened species. Among them are the Caltoris philippina seriata, Sinhala Bushblue (Nacaduba sinhala), and the Great Crow (Euploea phaenareta).
The garden was planted with 100 essential host and nectar plants to support butterfly life cycles, including: Cashew (කජු), Mee (මී), Rath Mal (රත් මල්), Yaki Narang (යකි නාරං), Nuga (නුග), Cinnamon (කුරුදු), Dehi (දෙහි), and Ugurassa (උගුරැස්ස).
These plants provide critical food sources for caterpillars and nectar for adult butterflies, helping to strengthen the local butterfly population and overall biodiversity.
By establishing this butterfly garden, we have created a living habitat that nurtures biodiversity, raises environmental awareness, and inspires future conservation efforts.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every individual and organization who contributed their time, effort, and passion. Together, we have created more than just a garden, we have built a lasting legacy for nature.
