New Sightings of Hasora Chromus in Kashmir
On October 17, 2024, renowned birder Ansar Ahmed made a remarkable discovery in Srinagar, Kashmir. For the first time, Hasora chromus, commonly known as the Common Banded Awl, was observed and photographed in the region. This sighting marks a significant expansion in the known distribution of the species.
Dr. Taslima Sheikh, a leading butterfly expert from Jammu and Kashmir, has confirmed the identification. Dr. Sheikh’s prior research documented the presence of Hasora chromus in the Jammu division at altitudes of 350 meters in Jammu and 1500 meters in the Bani tehsil of Kathua district. Despite extensive studies, the butterfly had never been observed in the Kashmir region until now.
Dr. Sheikh commented, “This new sighting is exciting for butterfly enthusiasts and researchers alike. The Hasora chromus is known for its distinct markings, and finding it in Srinagar opens new possibilities for studying its range and behavior in different altitudes and climates. My previous records focused on the species in Jammu, but its presence in the Kashmir Valley now adds to our understanding of the region’s biodiversity.”
With this discovery, Ansar Ahmed’s keen observations contribute to expanding the scientific knowledge of the Union Territory’s rich fauna, and Dr. Sheikh’s research continues to play a pivotal role in documenting these important finding.
