Kulangla Sangtam
B.Sc Geology (Eco Warriors Nagaland member)
Birding, or bird watching, has always been a special way for me to connect with nature and encourage young minds to appreciate the world around them. Observing birds in their natural habitats not only brings peace but also deepens our understanding of how closely all living beings are connected to the environment.
On 16th February 2025, I had the opportunity to conduct a birdwatching walk in collaboration with the Early Bird organization. The event was organized for children, and it was wonderful to see their excitement as they learned to identify birds by their calls, colors, and flight patterns. Watching them discover the joy of observing wildlife reminded me how important it is to nurture curiosity and respect for nature at a young age.
Through birding, I’ve come to realize that observation leads to awareness, and awareness leads to conservation. When children learn about birds, they naturally begin to care about protecting their habitats. Birding helps spread understanding about the threats wildlife face today — such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change — and how even small efforts can help.
One memorable moment that strengthened this belief was when two of my tuition students rescued a turtle they found in distress. With the support of the Eco Warriors Organization, the turtle was safely handed over to the Nagaland Zoological Park. The students later received certificates of appreciation for their kind and responsible act. Their compassion truly reflected the values of empathy and care that environmental education hopes to inspire.
These experiences have reaffirmed my belief that conservation begins with awareness. By engaging children in birding and hands-on activities, we plant the seeds of responsibility and respect for all living creatures. Small steps, when taken with sincerity, can indeed lead to a lasting positive impact on our planet.
