2026-10-24

"This was a truly great opportunity for our students," shared accompanying teacher coordinator Smitha Kumari, reflecting on the immersive field study. She added, "We were completely unaware that such a vast variety of species existed right here in our nearby areas, and these kinds of activities truly help make students more attached to nature."

This engaging outdoor excursion took place across the vibrant wetland areas near St. Mary’s HSS Kidangoor, organized under "Wings of Awareness"—a joint environmental education and conservation program by the Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES) and Buimerc India Foundation.

A dedicated cohort of 28 students ventured into the rich wetland ecosystem to conduct a comprehensive birdwatching and biodiversity survey. Expert Ornithologist Sarath Babu led the young participants through the terrain, providing valuable insights into avian behaviors, field identification techniques, and local ecology.

To blend wildlife observation with modern technology, TIES Project Officer Arathi Sasidharan conducted an interactive demonstration of the CROW App. Students received practical training on recording real-time field data digitally, empowering them to log species sightings and actively contribute to regional biodiversity mapping as student citizen scientists.

The field survey across the wetland margins proved exceptionally rewarding, yielding a remarkable count of 26 bird species. Among these, the sighting of the Asian Openbill and the Black-headed Ibis created extraordinary enthusiasm and excitement among the young learners as they observed the striking waterbirds in their natural habitat.

The educational expedition was smoothly coordinated with the dedicated support of accompanying teacher coordinator Smitha Kumari. By bridging classroom learning with direct exposure to rich natural aquatic habitats, the program successfully inspired a deep appreciation for local biodiversity and environmental stewardship among the students.