MELAKA: The Melaka Butterfly and Reptile Sanctuary (MBRS) has had to dispose of more than 3,000 caterpillars of various butterfly species for cost-saving purposes since the movement control order (MCO) was implemented on March 18.
MBRS Wildlife executive Qurratu A’in Rohaminordin said this was to limit the quantity of caterpillars and minimise the use of host plants, thus reducing the number of breeding laboratory workers at the sanctuary.
“Some of the species have been breeding for more than 10 years, but have to be disposed of and not released because they are fully cultured in the laboratory which may have adverse effects on the surrounding environment if released.
“Caterpillars of each species also need different host plants and in case they are released, the chance to survive and become a butterfly is very low as host plants are very limited and difficult to find,” he said in a statement today.
He added that during the MCO period, the sanctuary did not receive visitors as usual, causing a drop in revenue as its main source of income was dependent on the sale of tickets to domestic and foreign visitors.
As a result, Qurratu A’in said the number of wildlife workers at the sanctuary had been reduced, while the remaining staff were working in turns.
“This is necessary in view of the MCO, MBRS has lost its source of income, until reaching zero profit, and is also facing losses of up to RM300,000.
“However, thanks to the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) and the Energy and Natural Resources Ministry for supporting and providing consistent assistance to the sanctuary,” he added.
Those interested to help and watch the metamorphosis process (a caterpillar’s transformation into a butterfly), can make a purchase of the actual cocoon cultured in the breeding laboratory by visiting the MBRS official website at www.butterflyreptile.com or calling 06-2320033.
Established in 1991, MBRS is a private zoological park with the responsibility of researching and breeding more than 100 species of butterflies and insects. The sanctuary also breeds more than 200,000 butterflies annually. – Bernama
