2025-10-21

A dynamic field session in avian observation was recently held for learners from Excelsior English School, Illickal. This activity was a core component of the Wings of Awareness program, a pioneering initiative launched by the Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES) conceived and supported by Buimerc India Foundation. The project is specifically designed to cultivate a deep ecological awareness in students, employing hands-on, outdoor education to ignite curiosity, sharpen observational skills, and build a profound respect for the natural world. The project is implementing across 20 schools in Kottayam District, engaging around 1,000 students and 60 teachers.

The event took place in Malarikkal, Kottayam, a serene wetland locale celebrated for its vibrant biodiversity and tranquil waterways. This environment offered a perfect, undisturbed sanctuary for the students to fully immerse themselves in the fascinating pursuit of bird observation.

The session was expertly guided by Mr. Sarath Babu, TIES's accomplished Ornithology Expert and Nature Education Officer, alongside Ms. Suhaana, the Project Officer for Wings of Awareness. They collaboratively led the young participants, instructing them on the precise identification of species, interpreting avian behaviour, and recognizing the critical ecological function of wetland environments.

The morning commenced with a comprehensive primer on the fundamental techniques and ethical conduct required for bird watching, emphasizing responsible observation to maintain the ecosystem's tranquility. Subsequently, Ms. Suhaana provided a practical, live demonstration of the CROW(Children's Resources for Ornithology and Wilderness)  application, detailing how to efficiently document bird data and utilize its diverse functions. This application enables the systematic logging of student sightings, turning their fieldwork into valuable contributions to citizen science. Furthermore, the metrics derived from this uploaded data will be instrumental in assessing and recognizing the most proficient participants in the Wings of Awareness program.

While traversing the breathtaking landscape of Malarikkal, the students were delighted by the chance to identify numerous bird species. Among the noteworthy observations were the Whiskered Tern, Indian Pond Heron, Purple Heron, Oriental Darter, Black-headed Ibis, and Grey-Headed Swaphen. With every discovery, the mentors fostered a sense of wonder, assisting students in noting the unique field markings, vocalizations, and behavioral traits that serve to differentiate each bird.

The event benefited immensely from the proactive involvement of the school's faculty coordinators: Ms. Preeja S. Prabha, Ms. Sheeba Shibu, and Ms. Sajana Jayaraj. The collective efforts of the day successfully translated the program's objectives into tangible and lasting outcomes. Beyond the successful identification and confirmation of various wetland species, the session ignited a clear, practical passion for avian conservation among the young participants.