2025-09-20

As part of the Wings of Awareness initiative, an amateur bird watching and naturalist training programme implemented by the Tropical Institute of Ecological Sciences (TIES) conceived and supported by Buimerc India Foundation, a bird watching session was conducted at Crossroads English School, Pampady. The programme seeks to help students develop a close relationship with nature and foster awareness about biodiversity through direct field experiences.

The session was attended by the selected group of students and the programme’s teacher coordinators, Ms. Saramma V.P., Ms. Jeena Jacob, and Ms. Prathibhamol P.P., who actively supported the trainers and encouraged the students throughout the activity.

A live demonstration on how to use the CROW (Children's Resources for Ornithology and Wilderness) app, presented by Ms. Suhaana, Project Officer of Wings of Awareness. She guided the students on how to record bird sightings using the app, thus familiarizing them with the concept of citizen science. The bird watching activity was then led by Mr. Sarath Babu, Nature Education Officer of TIES, with assistance from Ms. Anoopa Mathews, PRO of TIES, whose coordination contributed to the smooth conduct of the session.

During the walk around the campus and nearby areas, the group was able to spot close to 20 species of birds. Notable among them were the Pale-billed Flowerpecker, Jungle Owlet, Plum-headed Parakeet, and White-cheeked Barbet. The students showed remarkable curiosity, quickly identifying the birds with the guidance of the trainers, and demonstrating a keen enthusiasm to learn.

The bird watching session at Crossroads School, Pampady, was a resounding success. The active participation of students, committed support of teachers, and expert guidance of the TIES team made the activity both educational and enjoyable, laying a strong foundation for the project’s future activities.