Page 18 - Apr-Jun 2018

naturalist
BIrDING IS FuN A naturalist is an expert on

natural history – someone
Birds are fascinating and curious about the natural world
watching them soar in the skies and how all its parts work
makes us wish we could fly together.
too! Birding or bird watching
is an activity of observing wild ANIMAL WATCh
birds in their natural habitat Animal watching is an art and adventure which requires
and not in captivity.
creativity, enthusiasm, love for animals and a lot of
You don't need expensive patience.
equipment or expert Things to be kept in mind while watching animals…
knowledge. The most
important tools are your eyes, • Respect wildlife.
ears and brain! Other things are optional. • Location – To observe a particular type of animal
you’ll have to go where that animal lives. So, you need
Useful bird watching aids to research on the habitat and areas. If you are in a
• Willingness to observe. national park or sanctuary, ask guides to help you out.
• Get a good bird book or a field guide. • Season – You must be there at the right time of the year
because most of the species change their behaviour
• A pair of binoculars, a hat, a pen and a notebook to throughout the year.
carry in your pocket or bag, a good pair of athletic
shoes etc. • Time – You must be there at the right time of the day
too, as some animals are most active during day and
• You can also subscribe to a magazine on bird watching some are active during night.
or order some DVDs or videos on bird watching.
• Equipment – Remember to carry a good camera and
Things to be kept in mind while birding binoculars.
• Don’t wear colognes, perfumes, scented lotions or
• Be kind to birds. Respect the birds, and their habitats hair products. Wear cotton fabrics in natural colours to
should not be disturbed. Some guidelines include: merge with the nature and avoid bright clothes. Wear
Don't stress the birds with artificial lighting, don't get a hat in the summers and dark glasses are a big no.
too close to nests, nesting colonies, feeding sites etc. • You should be careful about their daily lives and
• Be quiet. Avoid flash and camera noises. behaviour, their feeding, sleeping, breeding habit etc.

• Dress appropriately and wear colours that blend with • Keep your distance from animals and be still. You can
the surrounding landscape. Greens, browns, and grays track animals from their droppings or pug marks.
are good options. • Be quiet when you are out in their habitat and listen
• Start bird watching in the morning, when birds are carefully.
venturing out and searching for food with exceptions
for birds such as owls – a nocturnal bird. • Talk less and use hand signals to interact. Turn off your
cell phone.
• Listen to the bird calls, songs and look for their
movement in trees rather than just clicking them. • While you’re watching animals, listen to their sounds.

I believe I can fly…
I believe I can touch the sky…
Think about it every night
and day…
Spread my wings and fly
away…
Lyrics of song by: R. Kelly

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