2025-10-16

As part of the Wings of Awareness programme—an amateur bird watching and naturalist training initiative of the Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES) conceived and supported by Buimerc India Foundation —a bird watching session was organized for the participating students of Government U.P. School, Velluthuruthy. Designed to kindle curiosity and connect students more closely with their natural surroundings, this session marked the second phase of the programme, providing participants with a practical field experience following their earlier orientation on bird watching fundamentals. The project is implementing across 20 schools in Kottayam District, engaging around 1,000 students and 60 teachers

Under the guidance of their teacher coordinators, the group proceeded to Ambattu Kadavu in Puthuppally, a tranquil wetland ecosystem distinguished by its remarkable avian diversity and exceptional natural beauty The session was led by Mr. Sarath Babu, Nature Education Officer at TIES and Ornithology Expert, assisted by Ms. Aparna Raj, TIES Intern. At the site, the trainers briefed the students on the ethics of bird watching—emphasizing patience, silence, and respect for nature—before beginning the guided exploration. Moving through the wetlands and nearby vegetation, the trainers helped the students identify several bird species, pointing out distinct features and calls to aid recognition.

Under their guidance, the group spotted a variety of around 22 species such as the Pied Kingfisher, Rose-ringed Parakeet, Stork-billed Kingfisher, Purple Swamphen, and several other resident and migratory birds. The students listened attentively, noting field characteristics and gaining confidence in identifying birds with the trainers’ support.

As the session concluded, the participants gathered to share their observations and impressions from the day. The trainers encouraged them to continue observing nature around their homes and schools, reinforcing the idea that every small effort contributes to a greater understanding of biodiversity.

The bird  watching session at Government U.P. School, Velluthuruthy  proved to be an inspiring continuation of the Wings of Awareness journey—turning a morning in the field into an engaging lesson in observation, appreciation, and environmental  responsibility.