If sighting birds and learning about their species seems interesting then the upcoming bird count activity is the place to be.
An Initiative by Mumbai based Green works trust done along with Maharashtra Forest Department’s Thane Wildlife Division and SBI Foundation, the activity is to be conducted at the Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary besides Kashid Beach, Alibag.
Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary (PWS) is a well-maintained habitat for wildlife enthusiasts to see a large variety of biodiversity at one place. It is also the only Wildlife Sanctuary in Maharashtra which shares its border with seashore, thus comprising not only waders and wetland birds but also the intertidal fauna in its list.
The three day event is scheduled to be held from January 17 to 19. Participants will learn the scientific ways of documenting birds by walking approximately 25 kms in uneven jungle terrain which also includes moderate climbing as well.
“Phansad Bird Count’ is a Citizen Science initiative which focuses on collection of scientific data about avifauna through systematic observation and documentation techniques using scientific methods which is done by citizen participation, ” said the founder and managing trustee of Green works trust Nikhil Bhopale.
The event is open for participants between the age group 18 to 60 years. The 3-day survey is conducted using 2 scientific methods of collecting data— Line Transect method and Point Count method.
” In all 4 bird counting events are hosted annually and these are done as per the season. This is the pre winter counting. The ongoing counting is of the winter season; prior to this an event was held in March as well as in October.
Participant’s selection will be based on the knowledge and interest they possess; these may include amateurs as well as professionals,” said the trustee.
The trust has so far received registration from 25 states.
Specifications
Participants must have a binocular of magnification 8x and above.
Participants will be selected based on the information provided in the registration form.
Attendance at the orientation session on Day 1 is mandatory; failure to attend will result in disqualification from the event.
Use of playbacks or any kind of sound (e.g. whistle, phishing) to attract the species is strictly prohibited.
