Back Horn bill Birders Club
Hornbill- the UC Birder’s Club aims at bringing together all individuals who share a common interest in birdwatching, bird identification, and bird conservation. The club provides a platform for bird enthusiasts to come together, engage in activities related to birds, and share their knowledge and experiences. The club plan to organize regular outings to different locations, such as the local mangrove and wetland ecosystems, nature reserves, and wildlife sanctuaries, to observe and study birds in their natural habitats. These excursions offer opportunities to encounter a diverse range of bird species and learn about their behavior, migration patterns, and habitat preferences. This could provide members with a deeper understanding of birds and their ecological significance.
Our Club aims at:
• Fostering an interest in birdwatching: The club aims to provide opportunities for members to observe and appreciate birds in their natural habitats. This includes organizing birdwatching trips, nature walks, and excursions to diverse ecosystems to encounter a wide variety of bird species.
• Conservation and Habitat Preservation: The club aims to raise awareness about bird conservation and the importance of protecting habitats. It promotes responsible birdwatching practices that minimize disturbance to birds and their environments. The club may also engage in activities such as habitat restoration, bird-friendly campus initiatives, and collaborations with local conservation organizations.
• Education and Knowledge Sharing: The club aims to enhance members’ knowledge of avian biology, behavior, identification, and ecology. It organizes workshops, lectures, and presentations by experts in the field of ornithology to educate members about different bird species, migration patterns, and conservation issues. The club may also facilitate knowledge-sharing among members through discussions, presentations, and bird identification challenges.
• Citizen Science and Research: The club aims to actively contribute to citizen science initiatives and bird research projects. Members will participate in bird counts, surveys, and data collection efforts, thereby contributing to scientific understanding and conservation efforts. The club may also collaborate with academic institutions, researchers, and ornithological societies to support ongoing bird research and conservation initiatives
• Networking and Community Engagement: The club aims to build a community of bird enthusiasts within the college and beyond. It provides a platform for members to connect, share experiences, and collaborate on birdwatching activities. The club may also engage with local communities through outreach programs, bird-themed events,
and collaborations with other environmental and nature-related clubs.
• Photography and Artistic Expression: The club aims to promote bird photography and artistic expressions inspired by birds. It encourages members to capture and share their birding experiences through photography, artwork, and creative projects. The club may organize exhibitions or competitions to showcase members’ artistic works relatedto birds.
• Advocacy and Awareness: The club aims to advocate for bird conservation and raise awareness among the college community and the general public. It may organize awareness campaigns, bird-themed events, and educational initiatives to highlight the importance of birds in ecosystems, their ecological roles, and the threats they face. The club may also collaborate with local environmental organizations to promote bird conservation and sustainable practices.Overall, the Birder’s Club in college aims to create a platform for bird enthusiasts to come together, learn, appreciate, and contribute to bird conservation efforts. By fostering a love for birds, promoting knowledge sharing, and engaging in conservation activities, the club encourages a deeper connection with the natural world.
About the Logo
The logo depicts a hornbill wearing binocular. Hornbill is the state bird of Kerala. Binoculars are the key element needed by an explorer especially Birders during their adventure.
Club Inauguration
Hornbill – UC Birders club was inaugurated on 07th February 2023 by the most respected Manager Rev. Thomas John and Principal Dr. M. I. Punnoose of UC College Aluva along with the distinguished guest Mr. A. Jayamadhavan, DFO, Social Forestry, Ernakulam. The logo unveiling was also done during the function. Presidential address was given by the College Principal sharing his insights and perspectives with the attendees following which Rev. Thomas John delivered the Managerial address. Chief guest, Jayamadhavan sir delivered the keynote address sharing his experience in Bird watching in different Forest regimes in India anddelivering an inspiring talk on the benefits of Birding. The Inaugural meeting brought together young enthusiastic students and faculties of the department.
Club Coordinators: Mr. Dhanush B Danes, Ms. Femi Anna Thomas
Hornbill – UC Birders Club Inauguration and logo unveiling ceremony by Mr. A. Jayamadhavan, DFO, Social Forestry, Ernakulam
Brochure of the Birders Club Inauguration at UC College
Activity – 1
Event: Field Study trip to Thattekad Bird Sanctuary
Date: 25th February 2023
Location: Kothamangalam, Thattekad, Kerala
The visit to Thattekad Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary was a mesmerizing experience for our club members. The journey started on 25/02/2023 from UC College campus at 6:30 am. Field trip consisted of 11 students and 3 faculties. Thattekad Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, also known as Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, is located in the Kothamangalam Taluk of Ernakulam district in Kerala, India. It was established in 1983 and is named after the renowned Indian ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali. The sanctuary covers an area of about 25 square kilometers and is situated on the banks of the Periyar River. We discovered a treasure trove of avian wonders with each step along the well-marked trails. The vibrant plumage of the Indian Pitta, the melodious calls of the Malabar Grey Hornbill, and the elusive Sri Lanka Frogmouth perched on a branch captivated our senses. The expertise of our knowledgeable guide further enhanced the experience as we learned about the diverse bird species and their habitats. It was truly a memorable visit that deepened our appreciation for the remarkable biodiversity of Thattekad Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.
Students visiting Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary at Thattekad
Activity – 2
Event: Avifauna Survey of Union Christian College Campus at Aluva
Date: 4th March 2023
Location: UC College, Aluva
A survey was conducted to study the diversity of birds in the Union Christian College campus located in Aluva, Ernakulam, Kerala. The survey involved club members and experienced faculty members from the college. Birds were identified based on their color, feathers, flight patterns, and vocalizations. During the investigation, a total of 21 bird species belonging to 20 different genera and 15 different families were observed. Most of the bird species belonged to the Megalaimidae family, which consists of Asian barbets. In addition to the common bird species found in the area, such as Pigeons, Greater Coucals, Brahminy Kites, and Racket-tailed Drongos, we were fortunate to observe some less abundant species during the survey. These included the Purple-rumped Sunbird (Leptocoma zeylonica), Common Tailorbird (Orthotomus sutorius), Blue-throated Barbet (Psilopogon asiaticus), Red-wattled Lapwing (Vanellus indicus), and Golden Oriole (Oriolus oriolus). The presence of these less common species highlights the conservation significance of the Union Christian College campus.
Students during the Avifauna survey at UC Campus, Aluva
Download the detailed report here: BIRDERS-CLUB-UCC-Report.pdf (80 downloads )
