‘A Photographic Guide to Birds of Fakim’ by Leyamong L released

Kiphire, February 12 (MExN): With the aim to familiarise people with birds seen around the village and forests of Fakim village under Kiphire district, which is the gateway to Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary, a book titled ‘A Photographic Guide to Birds of Fakim’ by Leyamong L was launched on December 16 last. 

Written by a ‘former hunter himself,’ the book features bird species commonly found in Fakim based on bird surveys conducted by Leyamong around the village.

The book is multilingual, and includes an overview in English and Nagamese, and a listing of bird names in English and Chirr/Yimkhiung. Bird descriptions come from the author’s experience of observing birds and their behaviours, an update received here stated. 

Leyamong also offers glimpses into the folklores and folk beliefs around some of these birds, including stories behind the local bird names. “For instance, did you know that the incessant calls of the bay woodpecker, called thure veh in the local dialect, is associated with the coming of imminent news for someone in the village?” the release stated. 

The book launch was organised by the Naga Biodiversity Collective. The programme was presided by Limtemong Y, President, Fakim Students’ Union. The chief guest, Ningthsuki L, Pastor Fakim Baptist Church, urged those present to become better stewards of nature. Quoting examples from Bible, he spoke of how it is our responsibility to take care of our environment and forests. 

In his speech, Leyamong shared about how being a former hunter himself, he now believes that it is more interesting for him to study instead of hunting them. He urged the village youth to give up hunting and instead focus on protecting birds. He also spoke of the connection between forests, birds, and human well-being. 

Liavirhü Movi, a researcher and colleague of Leyamong shared her experience as a researcher studying bird diversity in Nagaland. She underscored the importance of protecting birds in the state as they play important roles in the ecosystems, especially as seed dispersers and pollinators.

Lansothung Lotha, Forest Ranger, who was previously posted in Fakim, also reiterated the importance of birds as farmers of the forest. He lauded Leyamong’s effort to document the bird diversity of Fakim and work towards conservation. Tekameren, Chairman of EcoWarriors, Nagaland conveyed his congratulations to Leyamong and shared the optimism that the youth of Nagaland will lead the way in protecting their biodiversity.

After the brief words from panel members, the book was launched by the Pastor along with other community members including the author’s mother, village elders, youths, and members of the anti-poaching staff. 

The book launch was followed by the gifting of a carrom board (sponsored by EcoWarriors Nagaland, Dimapur), and volleyballs and nets (sponsored by Naga Biodiversity Collective) to the village students' union. 

A volleyball tournament, sponsored by the Naga Biodiversity Collective, was also kicked off as part of the Christmas celebrations in the village.

The book was written by Leyamong L, with organisational and design support from Tekameren I Jamir, and editorial support from Lansothung Lotha and Priya Tamma. 

For the book copies or more information contact: nagabiodiversitycollective@gmail.com.