By Jyoti Patale, Eastern India Team, Consultant
The Ranchi bird walk was organized as part of the Great Backyard Bird Count 2025, a global community science event that encourages people to observe and document bird species in their surroundings. Early Bird and Ataavi Bird Foundation led the event, along with partner organization Keystone Foundation. The bird walk was specifically designed for children aged 9-13.
The bird walk took place on 16th February 2025, from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM, at Jonha Park, Koynardih, Ranchi, Jharkhand. Jyoti P. facilitated the session, with Sahebram Bediya as the co-facilitator. Volunteers Chamru and Shiveshwar provided additional support. A total of 31 participants joined the event.
The session began with an introduction where all participants got to know each other. We conducted an action song as an icebreaker to create a comfortable and engaging atmosphere. Following this, we discussed the code of conduct and team rules to ensure a smooth and respectful bird-watching experience. The primary focus of the session was on bird habitats. Participants learned about the concept of ‘habitat’, and its importance in bird ecology. We used habitat posters to illustrate different types of environments where
birds reside. The pictorial representations helped participants easily connect with the subject and understand the diversity of bird habitats.
Following the discussion, we conducted a bird walk through a well-preserved Sal tree (Shorea robusta) forest patch in Jonha Park. The walk provided participants with an opportunity to observe birds in their natural habitat, listen to their calls, and learn about their behaviours. Some of the bird species observed included: Black-hooded Oriole, Rufous Treepie, Hair-crested Drongo, Black Drongo, Plum-headed Parakeet, Oriental Honey Buzzard. One participant shared her excitement about using binoculars for the first time. She was
particularly thrilled to observe the bright colours of the Black-hooded Oriole, and to watch a Black Drongo feeding on insects.
Following the bird walk, the children gathered to reinforce their learning through interactive activities. Participants used flashcards to identify the birds they had observed during the walk. The flashcards also contained interesting facts about the birds, further enriching the learning experience. In addition to this, we conducted a bird colouring activity to help participants pay close attention to the colours and features of different birds.
The session concluded with a recap of the key learnings from the walk and activities. Participants shared their experiences and feedback, expressing enthusiasm for future bird walks and nature-based activities.
Photos by Sahebram Bediya
