Campus Bird Count

On the morning of 7th September 2024, Avian Allies, the Birders' Club at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Pune Lavasa Campus, held its exciting Bird-a-thon event. This one-day activity brought together faculty members, students, and bird lovers who were eager to learn about the different birds in the area. The event started at 7 AM at the Gazebo in the Central Block, where everyone gathered to receive instructions and safety tips for the birdwatching walk. With enthusiasm in the air, participants were given binoculars and field guides, preparing them for a fun adventure through the beautiful landscapes around the campus including School Street and the Promenade Area. 

Knowledgeable members of Avian Allies led the birdwalk, focusing on helping everyone appreciate the local bird species. As the group set off, the morning was filled with the cheerful sounds of birds, creating a wonderful atmosphere for what would become a memorable day of birdwatching. Despite the overcast skies, participants enjoyed spotting different bird species. They saw common species like the Rock Pigeon, also called the Feral Pigeon, and the Spotted Dove, both of which are charming birds. A highlight of the event was when they spotted a White-throated Kingfisher, known for its bright colors and unique call. The excitement continued with sightings of Little Cormorants, Large-billed Crows, and various types of Bulbuls, including the Red-whiskered Bulbul and the Red-vented Bulbul. The walk revealed not only familiar birds but also some rare sightings, like the Malabar Whistling-Thrush and the elegant Pied Bushchat. Participants enjoyed watching the playful Common Myna and the striking Barn Swallow, which made the experience more interactive as everyone shared stories and insights about the birds they found. In total, the birdwalk resulted in an impressive list of 20 different bird species, showcasing the rich variety of wildlife in the Lavasa area. Other notable sightings included the Dusky Crag-Martin, the Oriental Magpie-Robin, and the delightful Yellow-eyed Babbler. Each discovery sparked excitement and curiosity among the participants, leading to discussions about bird behavior, their habitats, and the importance of conservation efforts.

As the morning came to an end, the group returned to the Gazebo, where they shared their favorite moments and sightings. The event successfully raised awareness about local bird species and created a sense of community and shared passion for nature among everyone involved. In summary, the Bird-a-thon organized by Avian Allies was a great success, combining education, adventure, and friendship. This event showed the club's dedication to promoting environmental awareness and appreciation for wildlife, setting a positive example for future activities. Participants left feeling more connected to nature and with a deeper understanding of the birds that enrich our environment. The day was a wonderful opportunity for everyone to enjoy the beauty of birds and learn more about the world around them. In summary, the Bird-a-thon organized by Avian Allies was a resounding success, combining education, adventure, and friendship. This event exemplified the club's dedication to promoting environmental awareness and appreciation for wildlife, setting a positive example for future activities.