Congregation of nearly 20,000 butterflies belonging to four species has been recorded on The American College premises in Madurai.

According to the press release issued by the college, the unusual and spectacular event was observed across the college campus during the latter half of June, attracting the attention of researchers and nature enthusiasts.

The species recorded included the Dark Blue Tiger (Tirumala septentrionis), Double-branded Black Crow (Euploea sylvester), Common Crow (Euploea core), and the Plain Tiger (Danaus chrysippus). Thousands of butterflies were observed flying, feeding, and resting on the vegetation in the campus, creating a natural spectacle.

The campus supports nearly 45 species of butterflies. However, the unusually high number recorded during June represented a significant ecological event and highlighted the biodiversity value. Such congregations were often associated with favourable climatic conditions, availability of nectar resources, and suitable breeding habitats.

The observation and documentation of the phenomenon were carried out by a team from the PG and Research Department of Zoology of the college. The team was headed by Head and Associate Professor E. Joy Sharmila, and included Research Scholars, B. Archana, and P. Dhanabalan.

The press release said research activities undertaken by the department are supported by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Tamil Nadu State Council for Science and Technology (TNSCST). The ongoing studies focus on butterfly diversity, mud-puddling behaviour, butterfly–plant interactions, and molecular approaches to butterfly research and conservation.

The American College celebrates Butterfly Month every year during September. As part of the event, awareness campaigns, exhibitions, field observations and educational activities are conducted, the press release said.