A captivating bird watching session

RENOWNED ENVIRONMENTALIST ENGAGES DIKSHANT STUDENTS IN A CAPTIVATING BIRD WATCHING SESSION

Bird-watching, also known as birding, is a form of wildlife observation in which one can watch different birds closely while learning about them. In Chandigarh a complete birding experience was organised for students of Dikshant International School on 11-Dec-14 at the natural environs of Sukhna Lake by one of India’s most respected & well known environmentalists & birding experts – Ranjit Lal.

It is noteworthy that Lal has written fiction and non-fiction for both adults and children, which are centered around wildlife, birds, nature and people who love nature. In these 2 hours of expedition with Lal, as many as 30 species of birds were spotted by young birdwatchers. Armed with binoculars and cameras, students were amazed to see the wide variety of winged guests being hosted by the water body. They could watch and learn about birds such as Grey Heron, Indian Cormorant, Brahmi ducks, Common Pochards, Mallard, Gargney, white tailed Lapwing, Geese, Yellow wattle lapwing, Gadwal amongst many others. Weather plays an important role in the sighting of rare birds. Birds migrate from Colder Climates to temperate ones all year around. Therefore, the ideal place to watch these rare migratory birds are the wetlands along these migration routes where there is always an influx of these. Since Chandigarh falls along the route of annual migrations, it is ideal for bird watchers. In this regard Ranjit Lal said, “One of the economic spinoffs of bird watching is that birdwatchers will travel to a place where they get to see rare birds and thereby indirectly contribute to the local economy, which and in turn ensures that the environment is valued and protected. Nature has given Chandigarh a unique location where this eco-tourism can flourish.” Adds Ranjit Lal, “I give full credit to Dikshant International School for exposing students to birding as this will generate an interest in them to appreciate & protect nature.”

Mr Mitul Dikshit , Chairman Dikshant International School said “ If we want our children to grow up wanting to conserve nature , it is very important to introduce them to wonder and beauty of it. It is unique opportunity for children to explore nature with one of the India’s most renowned birders Mr. Ranjit lal.