Echoes of Earth recently collaborated with Residents of the Defence Colony Society, College Of Fine Arts, Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath, and WWF-India to host Avian Adventure. The aim of the event was to address the issue of declining nesting spaces for birds caused by urban development and educate the participants about the importance of birds, their ecology, and conservation efforts.
The workshop took place on the 28th of October 2023 in Bengaluru, and featured various activities and workshops. The sessions included a Nature and Bird walk and a hands-on experience in creating Nest Boxes and Bird Feeders, in which participants could learn the art of crafting these essential nesting spaces. The activities were conducted in collaboration with the Residents of the Defence Colony Society, WWF-India, and the College Of Fine Arts, Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath.
Prajwal Deep, a naturalist and educator, led the nature and bird walk, while Fastin Prasan, an artist and researcher, facilitated the bird nest-making workshop. Both activities aimed to empower participants with the knowledge and skills to contribute to the local bird population.
The need for such workshops arises from the limited availability of natural nesting holes for birds in urbanized areas. This lack of suitable shelter in modern buildings and tidy natural spaces has led to a decline in the bird population. By creating nest boxes, participants in the workshop could positively impact the local bird community.
Supported by the Residents of the Defence Colony Society, WWF-India, and the College Of Fine Arts Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath, the workshop concluded with the construction of nest boxes. These boxes will be donated and installed at the Children’s Park and Walkers Park in Defence Colony, Indiranagar.
Ashok Sarath, President of Decora, Defence Colony shares his enthusiasm saying, “One of the pleasures of living in Defence Colony is the sound of birdsong in the morning and evenings. Nesting, roosting, feeding, calling, they populate our tees and our hearts. We have such a variety of birdlife – from sunbirds and barbets to crows and owls. Plus my particular favorites are parakeets! Home to an avid birder community, Defence Colony residents have also been able to spot more exotic species like Indian Paradise Flycatcher, and Golden Orioles. Truly, we are blessed. And we must keep our blessings alive – which is why I’m delighted that we’re part of the Bird Nest Project in association with Echoes of Earth. Long may our birds continue to thrive and gladden us.”
