Skies are turning blue and the morning sunbeams in my city are gradually becoming tolerable. During the morning assembly time in my school I could catch the sights of a V-shaped flock of migratory birds flying across the valley. It’s a true reminder that winter is coming. But watching those birds glide away from our skies makes me think of the hobby ‘birdwatching’ and the joy it brings to us. It has its benefits for a nation like ours which is blessed with unmatched natural beauty.
Birdwatching is done for various purposes such as for the sake of a hobby or some research as an ornithologist. It is done in their natural habitats and environment. I am sure watching a bird is more fun in its candid natural setting than in a cage. That is why birdwatchers across the globe are attracted to our country every year. As our country lies geographically between two extreme climatic zones it can be a hub for birdwatching activity. Our country can take some initiatives to create a favorable environment for both migratory and native birds. In fact, birds know no political boundaries and if we fail to offer them what they need naturally, they will gradually disappear from our land. For example, even our national bird Daphne (lophophorus) will cease to exist in our land if we continue to remain apathetic about the problems it is facing due to various man made causes.
Birds are full of wonders. Seeing them fly, humans first fancied flying. I sometimes intently look at birds perched in our school's famous guava tree. The sight of them pecking on ripe guavas is so fascinating. They offer us quite some lessons—focus, agility and natural food behavior.
Recently, man made radiations, uncontrolled pesticide use and deforestation have put the population of birds under threat all over the world. Birds have a very important role in sustaining our earth's ecosystem and natural food chain. The population of insects and worms which are harmful to crops are kept in balance by birds.
So, promoting birdwatching hobbies is equal to promoting tourism and paying respect to Mother Nature. This justifies why it is a rewarding hobby.
Darshan Oli
Grade: VII
Sanskar Pathshala, Dang