magazine - SALEM ORNITHOLOGICAL FOUNDATION

DARTER – Vol. 4 – Issue 2 (Apr-Jun 2020)

1 Comment / 2020 / Salem Ornithological Foundation

EDITOR'S NOTE

“The World Has Come Down To Its Feet And Is Upside Down. All Nations Big And Small Are Enduring One Of The Heaviest Blows In The History Due To COVID-19. Salem Ornithological Foundation Advises Everyone To Follow The Guidelines And Regulations Issued By Their Respective Governments. As Is The Case In Every Sector, The Activities By SOF Was Also Reduced But We Are Trying Engage People Virtually In Various Ways. One Of The Good Things Which Happened During The Lockdown Is That Significant Number Of People Have Started To Look At Birds And Nature! It Is Indeed A Positive Sign. However, We Wish The Crisis To End Sooner But Not The Interest Germinating Within People. Sightings And Records Which Are Entered In EBird Are Only Taken Into Account Towards The Writing Of This E-Magazine.” —Ganeshwar SV.

LOCKDOWN NATURE WRITING CHALLENGE

During the lockdown period, for people and nature enthusiasts to spend time in a safe and meaningful way, Salem Ornithological Foundation introduced Lockdown Nature Writing Challenges. This is not only to encourage the habit of nature writing but also to keep boredom and stress at bay. Some of the articles received during the lockdown period were as follows:

Beyond Watching Birds: From the Eastern Himalayas to the Cities by Ankita Ranjan
A Nest of Hope by Dr Neethu Asokan
The Whistling Schoolboy & his friends from Yercaud by Dr C Sreekumar
Discovering my inner peace with this post retirement hobby by BE Rajendran
சேவலும் பெட்டையும் (Cock and Hen) by V Kalaiselvan

6th eNDEMIC BIRD DAY

With the lockdown restrictions in place, Salem birders did birding from in and around their homes to participate in the 6th Endemic Bird Day on May 9, 2020. The day which also coincides with the Global Big Day saw an impressive contribution by the birders in the district, through which Salem was ranked as the No.1 district in India in terms of total checklists submitted (359). To see the complete list of species recorded during the day, please click here. We thank Kaalai Kathir and Dinakaran, two leading Tamil news dailies for publishing the news to spread the awareness about birds.

EARLY BIRD LOCKDOWN TALK SERIES

Early Bird, a non-profit initiative which introduces birds and nature to children began conducting series of webinars about birds, their behaviors, nature games, etc. in different languages. Salem Ornithological Foundation joined with Early Bird in conducting the talks in Tamil which were presented by Ganeshwar SV. The links to the talks are as follows:

Introduction to Birding (Tamil) on May 16, 2020.
Learning through Games (Tamil) on May 22, 2020.
Part I: Ecology & Behavior of Birds (Tamil) on June 7, 2020.
Part II: Ecology & Behavior of Birds (Tamil) on June 13, 2020.

You can explore further about other talks in English, Kannada, Hindi and Telugu in Early Bird’s YouTube channel.

Screenshot (538) — Poster collage of Tamil webinars by Early Bird

WOMEN IN BIRDING

On June 2, 2020, Angeline Mano was invited to give a lecture on her experience in birding and talk about the participation of women in birding. It was conducted by Iragugal Raveendran’s Owl Classroom.

NOTABLE OBSERVATION

On June 3, 2020, the team of Angeline Mano, Elavarasan M, Govindarajan, Kalaiselvan V, Rajangam P and Venkatesh S visited the Puzhuthikuttai Dam or Anaimaduvu Reservoir and observed a pair of GREATER RACKET-TAILED DRONGO Dicrurus paradiseus feeding their two fledglings. It was noted that in a span of 1 hour and 50 minutes, the fledglings were fed 11 times by the parents with different types of insects, grasshoppers and a skink. During the time period, the adults made mimicry calls like Shikra, a domestic cat, Crested Serpent Eagle and a call which sounded like “tri-you… tri-you… tri-you…”

DAZZLING DANISHPET LAKE

On June 9, 2020, Angeline Mano, Venkatesh S visited the Danishpet Lake in Kadayampatti taluk of Salem district. They were also able to photograph 43/63 recorded during the session. To see the complete illustrated checklist, please click here.

EXPLORING THE LESSER KNOWN

On June 17, 2020, the team of Angeline Mano, Periyanayagam, Rajangam P, Venkatesh S and Vijayasarathy C explore one of the least explore locations, the Sanyasi Varadar Temple Area near Thalavaipatty of Pethanaickenpalayam taluk. They recorded 58 species in two sessions including one of the rare birds, the WHITE-TAILED IORA (MARSHALL’S IORA) Aegithina nigrolutea.

WTIO-Vijayasarathy-SOF — WHITE-TAILED IORA photographed by Vijayasarathy Chinnaiah

Salem Ornithological Foundation once again emphasizes to follow the official guidelines and regulations issued by the respective Governments. Please keep your travel to the bare minimum, only to procure the essential supplies. Stay home. Stay safe. Let us stay positive and keep our faith for things to change better and hopefully sooner. May we all overcome this crisis together. You can contact our team at anytime by just sending a mail to birdforchange@gmail.com OR call us at +91-7598123614.

EARLY BIRD LOCKDOWN TALK SERIES

Introduction to Birding (Tamil) on May 16, 2020.
Learning through Games (Tamil) on May 22, 2020.
Part I: Ecology & Behavior of Birds (Tamil) on June 7, 2020.
Part II: Ecology & Behavior of Birds (Tamil) on June 13, 2020.

You can explore further about other talks in English, Kannada, Hindi and Telugu in Early Bird’s YouTube channel.

WOMEN IN BIRDING

NOTABLE OBSERVATION

DAZZLING DANISHPET LAKE

EXPLORING THE LESSER KNOWN

EARLY BIRD LOCKDOWN TALK SERIES

Introduction to Birding (Tamil) on May 16, 2020.
Learning through Games (Tamil) on May 22, 2020.
Part I: Ecology & Behavior of Birds (Tamil) on June 7, 2020.
Part II: Ecology & Behavior of Birds (Tamil) on June 13, 2020.

You can explore further about other talks in English, Kannada, Hindi and Telugu in Early Bird’s YouTube channel.

WOMEN IN BIRDING

NOTABLE OBSERVATION

DAZZLING DANISHPET LAKE

EXPLORING THE LESSER KNOWN

6th eNDEMIC BIRD DAY

DARTER – Vol. 4 – Issue 2 (Apr-Jun 2020) Read More »

DARTER – Vol. 4 – Issue 1 (Jan-Mar 2020)

2020 / Salem Ornithological Foundation

EDITOR’S NOTE

“With every passing year, the set of activities and achievements especially in the first three months is on rise by manifolds. The outreach and education programs which are close to our hearts has witnessed some amazing numbers. This year’s AWC was a top notch for the district as birders covered 50+ wetlands in total. In the GBBC, it was once again our stellar show for the second successive year. Sightings and records which are entered in eBird are only taken into account towards the writing of this e-magazine. SOF’s take on COVID-19 is given in the end.” —Ganeshwar SV.

ASIAN WATERBIRD CENSUS

The Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) is part of the global International Waterbird Census (IWC). This citizen-science programme is supporting conservation and management of wetlands worldwide. It was conducted from January 4 to 19, 2020 covering two weeks and three weekends. The AWC also welcomes counts from any date in January. Checklists were shared with AWC India eBird account.

This year SOF birders Angeline Mano, Divya Subramani, Ganeshwar SV, Kalaiselvan V, Rajangam P and Senthil Kumar S covered 50+ wetlands in Salem including 1) Kannankurichi (Mookaneri) Lake, 2) Kolanthampatty Lake, 3) Kumaragiri Lake, 4) Muthunaickenpatti Lake, 5) Omalur Lake, 6) Erumapalayam Lake, 7) PMP Nagar Lake or P. Nattamangalam Lake, 8) Poolavari Lake, 9) Panamarathupatti Lake, 10) Danishpet Lake, 11) Danishpet Chinna Lake, 12) Kamalapuram Lake, 13) Kamalapuram Periyeri Lake, 14) Pavalathanoor Lake, 15) Periya Kadampatti Lake, 16) Pallapatti Lake, 17) Selathampatti Lake, 18) Ismail Khan Lake, 19) Rettiyur Road Lake near Nangavalli, 20) Chinna Pethanaickenpalayam Lake, 21) Thennangudipalayam Lake, 22) Periya Urani Lake near Jalakandapuram, 23) Kattinayakanpatty Lake, 24) S.E.M Road Lake, 25) Panangadu Lake, 26) Muttal Lake, 27) Kottapuli Lake, 28) Vellarivelli Lake, 29) Kottanathan Lake, 30) Sengadu/Jangama Samudram Lake, 31) Sentharapatti Lake, 32) Sarkar Nattamangalam Lake, 33) Thalavaipatty Lake, 34) Pethanaickenpalayam Lake, 35) Manivilundan Lake, 36) Thalaivasal Lake, 37) Aragalur Periyeri Lake, 38) Sitheri Lake, 39) Vellaiyur Lake, 40) Nallur Lake, 41) Veeraganur Lake, 42) Navalur Lake, 43) Punalvasal Lake, 44) Chinna Punalvasal Lake, 45) Saarvaai Lake, 46) Thodavoor Lake, 47) Anayampatti Lake, 48) Naduvaneri Lake, 49) Valasakkalpatti Lake or Veera Ramar Dam, 50) Selliyampalayam Lake, 51) Kondayampalli Lake, 52) Ariyapalayam Lake.

Apart from surveying the lakes, the team also visited 10 different spots along the Cauvery river and dam of the Stanley Reservoir, Mettur. All the locations in and around the reservoir will collectively be referred to as the Mettur Cluster henceforth—16 Gate Ellis Surplus Sluices, Mettur Dam View Point, Sampalli & Moolakkadu, Chinna Mettur, Pannavadi, Kaveripuram, Kottaiyur & Chettipatty and Thippampatty, Keerakaranoor, Koonandiyur. Additionally, the team visited Vashishta River near Thulukkanur and Aragalur area. Special thanks to Sathiyamoorthi T, a school teacher near Thalaivasal who hosted us at his place, which is why we were able to successfully cover the wetlands in the eastern border of the district. All these efforts resulted in the record of 133 species during the AWC. Detailed analysis to be published soon.

One of the wetlands covered during AWC. Photo: Ganeshwar SV

OUTREACH (1)

On January 10, 2020, an outreach program emphasizing the importance of learning birds and nature through games was conducted at Panchayat Union Primary School, Jambuthumalai by bird educators Angeline Mano and Ganeshwar SV. The session was supported by the school headmaster Kalaiselvan V. Early Bird educational materials were highly useful tools for activity-based teaching. After the games, children were taken for a bird walk and pocket guides were presented to them.

OUTREACH (2)

On January 13, 2020, an lecture-cum-games session was conducted at Government Tribal Residential School, Kunnur, Karumandurai by bird educators Angeline Mano, Divya Subramani and Ganeshwar SV. Pongal festival was also celebrated at the school premises. Students while enjoying the sweetness of Pongal were encouraged to watch birds which came to eat some of the spilled food. They enthusiastically identified Crows, Mynas, Babblers and couple of Peafowls. Thanks to Perumal Madhu Naveen and Kalaiselvan V for the support and opportunity towards the event.

6th PONGAL BIRD COUNT

Similar to the previous years, Salem birders enthusiastically participated in the sixth Pongal Bird Count (January 16-19, 2020) held in Salem, coordinated by Salem Ornithological Foundation. This year, the focus was given to the wetland habitats so as to contribute to AWC as well. The results of 2020 PBC will soon be published by the Tamil Birders Network.

OUTREACH (3)

On January 21, 2020, the students of Panchayat Union Middle School, Latchumayur were briefed by Angeline Mano and Divya Subramani about the importance of Campus Bird Count and origami, memory game with Early Bird flashcards were also played. “It’s just for one day; we don’t mind having lunch at all. We want to play more; let’s play more, akka. When will you come back again?” These were some of the loud, collective voices from students which was a proof of their enjoyment and fun. Thanks to the headmaster Palanivel for hosting our team.

Enthusiastic bunch of Latchumayur School students. Photo: Ganeshwar SV

OUTREACH (4)

On January 21, 2020, a new birding club was inaugurated at Panchayat Union Middle School, A.P. Vattam after the talk on introduction to birding and campus bird count by educators Divya Subramani and Angeline Mano. Thanks to the teacher C Santhosh Kumar for the opportunity and organizing the session.

OUTREACH (5)

On February 13, 2020, a lecture on introduction to birds and Campus Bird Count was conducted by Ganeshwar SV at Panchayat Union Middle School, Mattayampatti. The session was coordinated and supported by the school teacher Janakiraman Mani.

OUTREACH (6)

On February 13, 2020, an interactive session on common birds and Campus Bird Count was conducted by Ganeshwar SV at Panchayat Union Middle School, Sengodanur. After the session a birding club named Purple Sunbird Birding Club was also inaugurated. The event was coordinated by the school teacher Karthi Athish.

BIRDS & BUTTERFLIES SURVEY

The Birds and Butterflies Survey of Salem district was jointly conducted by the Salem Forest Department and the Salem Nature Society on February 14-16, 2020. As per reports, 214 bird species and 136 butterfly species were recorded during the survey. District Forest Officer A. Periasamy, I.F.S, said that based on the proposals in the report, steps would be taken to conserve and preserve the habitats and host plants here. (Source and for more details: The Hindu)

8th GREAT BACKYARD BIRD COUNT

The global Great Backyard Bird Count takes place every year over four days (Friday – Monday) around the middle of February. Since it is carried out at around the same time every year, GBBC helps create an annual, real-time snapshot of what birds are where. GBBC 2019, which took place from 14th – 17th February 2020, was the eighth in India.

For the second straight year, Salem had uploaded the most number of checklists (10,455) by any district in the world! (Source:BCI) Birders of Salem district especially from Salem Ornithological Foundation made huge contributions and six of the Top 10 birders in the World and India are from our team. In terms of massive coordinated efforts by schools, the maximum number of checklists uploaded belonged to four Panchayat Union Middle Schools–Krishnampudur (3,715 checklists), A.P. Vattam (513), Latchumayur (454), Souriyur (164) and Thalavaipatty (55). Many thanks and congratulations to all the participants and the headmasters and teachers of the schools. To see the complete results of Great Backyard Bird Count–India, please click here.

(Note: the numbers on the eBird website may differ a little from those presented in Bird Count India because of slight differences in methods of calculation)

WORKSHOP ON BIRD IDENTIFICATION

On March 15, 2020, Salem Ornithological Foundation in coordination with Tamil Nadu Science Forum (Salem) conducted one-day workshop on bird identification hosted by Sri Seshaas International Public School, Yercaud Foothills, Salem. The participants were exposed both to classroom and field session which made the workshop a complete one.

Ganeshwar SV addressing on the basics of bird identification. Photo: Venkatesh S

SECOND RECORD

On March 17, 2020, Kalaiselvan V recorded TICKELL’S THRUSH Turdus unicolor for the second time in Salem district. To see the complete checklist, please click here.

TICKELL’S THRUSH photographed by Kalaiselvan

SALEM BIRDERS AS EDUCATORS IN NON-SALEM EVENTS

On February 29, 2020, our member and teacher Rajangam P was invited to give a talk on the introduction to birds and he inaugurated two birding clubs in Swami Vivekananda Nursery and Primary School and Panchayat Union Middle School, Ponnusangampatti – both the schools in Tiruchirapalli district.

On March 8, 2020, a nature walk was organized by the Tamil Nadu Science Forum (Krishnagiri) for Thulir Illam students and Rajangam P was invited as the resource person for the event.

On March 8, 2020, “Super Kids for Birds” was organized by Podhigai Charal and Payilagam at Chennai and Ganeshwar SV from Nature Conservation Foundation was invited as the resource person. Children were taught to play memory game with flashcards, sketching birds, thumb art and clay modelling which they enjoyed a lot. Snippets from the session were also telecasted in a leading Tamil news channel, Puthiya Thalaimurai. Thanks to Aravind Amirtharaj, an expert birder based in Chennai and Ramanujam Krishnan of Podhigai Charal for the opportunity.

COVID-19 and LOCKDOWN

While everyone of us would have hoped for a good year to continue, unfortunately, disaster struck in the form COVID-19 and the whole world was brought down to its knees and is struggling to survive. Please don’t be misguided by false statements and unproven theories that bats were the reason for this virus. One: So far, there is no evidence that bats are carriers of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Because, “The current pandemic virus, SARS-CoV-2 has not been identified in any bat species, to date.” Two: Of the thousands of bat species around the world, only one — the intermediate horseshoe bat — is linked to COVID-19, that too indirectly. And the chances of you finding a horseshoe bat in your urban or rural household are supremely slim, for these bats do not venture near human habitations. Bats are pollinators, seed dispensers, pest controllers and do a lot for the spaces we inhabit. Unfortunately, most of us are unaware of it. (Source and for more details: The Hindu) We request birders and everyone around the world to adhere to the guidelines and safety measures announced by the Governments with inputs from the scientific community. The Government of India announced the nationwide lockdown on March 24, 2020, which is officially still in place after many phases. Members of SOF have also volunteered towards the relief measures. These are tough times for all of us and let us hope for the best to pass this threat sooner. May we all learn lessons, start to respect and treat the planet better for the future generations.

DARTER – Vol. 4 – Issue 1 (Jan-Mar 2020) Read More »

DARTER – Vol. 3 – Issue 4 (Oct-Dec 2019)

2019 / Salem Ornithological Foundation

EDITOR’S NOTE

“Exploring one of the least visited locations has given rise to a new photo record; the special campus sighting by the the renowned P.U.M.S, Krishnampudur students and the 6th Tamil Birders Meet in a least-birded district Theni have all made this final issue of the year a great one! With this 12th issue, DARTER completes three years of online publication successfully. We are thankful to each of the contributors and our readers worldwide. Sightings and records which are entered in eBird are only taken into account towards the writing of this e-magazine.” —Ganeshwar SV.

FIRST PHOTO RECORD

On October 6, 2019, Senthil Kumar S photographed a MONTAGU’S HARRIER Circus pygarus for the first time in Salem. Please see the complete checklist here.

MOHA_Suli_6-Oct-2019 — MONTAGU’S HARRIER female photographed by Senthil Kumar S (Vasen Suli)

ECO CLUB MEET

On October 6, 2019, the Eco Club meeting was held at Panchayat Union Middle School, Thalavaipatty to review the past and present eco activities of the school. They also planned new ways to enhance the set of activities which they were already doing. The meet was coordinated by teacher P Rajangam.

CAMPUS RECORD BY STUDENTS

On October 12, 2019, the students of Panchayat Union Middle School, Krishnampudur recorded ASIAN BROWN FLYCATCHER Muscicapa dauurica in their school campus for the first time. Their guide and teacher Vadivukkarasi A conveyed that the students were thrilled to see a migratory bird in their school. Salem Ornithological Foundation congratulates the students and teachers for their consistent and dedicated efforts in campus bird monitoring. Please see the complete checklist here.

Krishnampudur-ABFL-12-Oct-2019-SOF — ASIAN BROWN FLYCATCHER photographed at P.U.M.S, Krishnampudur campus by teacher Vadivukkarasi A

OCTOBER BIG DAY

During the October Big Day on October 6, 2018, birders collectively recorded 90 species and submitted 170 checklists in total. The participants were Angeline Mano, Elavarasan M, Himavat Gouresh, Pavithra Sangee, Pradeepa Sudhakar, Rajendran BE, Subramania Siva, Vadivukkarasi A and Senthil Kumar S. Notable sighting of the day was a ‘Vulnerable’ RED-NECKED FALCON Falco chicquera near Tharamangalam and a small flock of ASIAN FAIRY-BLUEBIRDS Irena puella, both sighted by Senthil Kumar S. For more details about the day’s event, please click here.

AFBB by Kalaiselvan — ASIAN FAIRY-BLUEBIRD male photographed by Kalaiselvan V

SÁLIM ALI BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

To commemorate the birth anniversary of legendary ornithologist, Dr. Salim Ali, on November 12, 2019 several programs such as classroom presentations with songs and games, drawing competitions, bird walks were conducted at many schools including Panchayat Union Primary School, Neermullikuttai (conducted by Kalaiselvan V), Panchayat Union Middle School, Krishnampudur (Senthil Kumar S) and Panchayat Union Middle School, Thalavaipatty (Rajangam P).

CERTIFICATE COURSE IN BASIC ORNITHOLOGY

India’s top prestigious research institutions IISER, Tirupati, SACON, NCBS and NCF collaborated to bring out a Certificate Course in Basic Ornithology: Research & Conservation which was held at IISER, Tirupati. It was supported by Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies. Out of over 1600 applications for the course, 100 aspiring students who are pursuing or would pursue a career in wildlife or ornithology were selected after scrutiny. One among the selected lot was a member of Salem Ornithological Foundation, Ganeshwar SV who successfully completed the course and received the certificate. To listen to the course lectures, basic ornithology, bird biology, conservation and research, please visit: https://www.ornithology.in/

CCBO — For more details, visit ornithology.in

6TH TAMIL BIRDERS’ MEET

With more than 100 participants from many parts of Tamil Nadu and neighboring states, the 6th Tamil Birders Meet was great success. It was organized with the help of Sri Adi Chunchanagiri Women’s College, Cumbum, Theni. Three members from Salem Ornithological Foundation delivered their presentations. Angeline Mano, engaged children with several nature and bird education games which were greatly enjoyed by the participants. Ganeshwar SV, along with senior birder Dr Badrinarayan gave a lecture on the basics of using eBird and best practices to submit a good checklist. Senthil Kumar S (Vasen Suli) presented his observations on the monitoring of the ‘Vulnerable’ White-naped Tit.

A BIRDWATCHER’S PLEDGE

If you agree with these sentiments, do help circulate by downloading the poster above and sharing them. The pledge is also available in 11 other Indian languages; to take the pledge in your regional language, please click here.

DARTER – Vol. 3 – Issue 4 (Oct-Dec 2019) Read More »

DARTER – Vol. 3 – Issue 3 (Jul-Sep 2019)

2019 / Salem Ornithological Foundation

EDITOR’S NOTE

“This year’s third quarterly activities saw a little dip than previous two years but the significance of sightings, impact of activities is second to none. The first few migratory birds have started to arrive and it is time catch some nice birds and we wish birders to have a good season. Don’t miss to check out the beautiful narration by a veterinary professor who visited Yercaud. There was also an interesting movement of a endemic bird from Western Ghats. Outreach activities are going strong as usual. Sightings and records which are entered in eBird are only taken into account towards writing of this e-magazine.” —Ganeshwar SV.

VISITING BIRDER EXPERIENCE

Dr C Sreekumar, Professor & Head (Wildlife Science), Madras Veterinary College at Tamil Nadu Veterinary & Animal Sciences University, visited Yercaud and had some fantastic birding experience. He also shared a brilliant article with our team, titled “The Whistling Schoolboy & his friends from Yercaud” which is sure to take us through his birding trails and give us insights about the diversity of birdlife.

3 Dr Sreekumar Chirukandoth — The birding trails on 09.08.2019 and 10.08.2019 from Aradhana Inn, Yercaud and the tentative locations where some of the birds were spotted by Dr C Sreekumar

WEEKEND BIRDING

On July 12, 2019, several students of the Indian Roller Birding Club belonging to the Panchayat Union Middle School, Thalavaipatty participated in the regular weekend bird watching trip near their school surroundings along with their teacher P Rajangam.

OUTREACH

On July 27, 2019, Kalaiselvan V gave a presentation on birds and environment at the NCSC training program for guide teachers organized by the Tamil Nadu Science Forum.

Kalaiselvan 1 July 27 NCSC teachers training — Kalaiselvan V addressing the gathering

EXPLORING HABITATS

On July 27, 2019, The team comprising Angeline Mano, Divya Subramani, Ganeshwar SV, Kalaiselvan V, Dr Ravi M and Tamil Selvan A set out to explore the Puzhuthikuttai Dam or Anaimaduvu Reservoir and its surroundings for two days. This location is a unique habitat combination of wetland, open country, scrub jungle hillock. The team spotted more than 50 bird species including the endemic Large Grey Babbler Turdoides malcolmi.

PD or AR_Ganeshwar — Panoramic view of Anaimaduvu Reservoir photographed by Ganeshwar SV

FEATHERY DISPLAY

On August 2, 2019, a beautiful display of Feather Collection Exhibition was conducted at the Panchayat Union Middle School, Thalavaipatty. These feathers were all collected during different time periods and were found on the ground. No bird was harmed because of this activity. The event was coordinated by the school teacher and birder, P Rajangam. 2019_Aug_2_feather collection_pums_thalavaipatty

SCIENTIFIC TEMPER DAY

On August 20, 2019, National Scientific Temper Day was celebrated at Panchayat Union Middle School, Thalavaipatty. As it turns out, this is something the Constitution of India requires every Indian to do. Says Article 51A(h), “It shall be the duty of every citizen … to develop the scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform.” P Rajangam explained the several misconceptions about birds which is prevalent even today and insisted that students should develop scientific temper and not be misled by pseudoscience.

2019_Aug_20_scientific_temper_pums_thalavaipatty — Scientific Temper Day celebrated at P.U.M.S, Thalavaipatty

SECOND RECORD

On September 15, 2019, Senthil Kumar S recorded NILGIRI WOOD-PIGEON Columba elphinstonii for the second time in Salem. Please see the complete checklist here. It is one of the endemic and threatened species classified as ‘Vulnerable‘ by the IUCN. It is interesting to note that the first record of the same species by The Nature Trust also happened in September, three years ago. To see the complete checklist, click here. It is widely regarded as one of the Western Ghats endemic birds and hence these sightings from the Eastern Ghats of Salem hold much significance to understand the distribution and seasonal movements of the bird better. Please also see the eBird distribution map of Nilgiri Wood Pigeon.

NWP by Suli Sep 2019 — NILGIRI WOOD-PIGEON photographed by Senthil Kumar S

FIRST PHOTO RECORD

On September 27, 2019, Senthil Kumar S recorded RAIN QUAIL Coturnix coramandelica for the second time in Salem (based on eBird) and it was the first photographic record. Please see the complete checklist here. To read the story of this amazing sighting in Tamil, please click here.

RAQU by Suli — RAIN QUAIL photographed by Senthil Kumar S

DARTER – Vol. 3 – Issue 3 (Jul-Sep 2019) Read More »

DARTER – Vol. 3 – Issue 2 (Apr-Jun 2019)

2019 / Salem Ornithological Foundation

EDITOR’S NOTE

With each passing year, summer is becoming relentless to bear. However, similar to the past two years, our birders have kept their enthusiasm throughout the second quarter and have come up with good records. Our team also took a different approach to raise awareness for Endemic Bird Day. Yet again, the contribution by our birders is on the highest level. Sightings and records which are entered in eBird are only taken into account towards writing of this e-magazine. —Ganeshwar SV.

TO BEAT THE HEAT

On April 4, 2019, the students of Panchayat Union Primary School, Kurichi collected coconut shells along with their headmaster Kalai Selvan V and made water bowls to help birds to beat the heat of summer.

FIRST PHOTO RECORD

On April 16, 2019, Senthil Kumar S recorded a GREATER SPOTTED EAGLE Clanga clanga just for the second time and photographed it for the first time in Salem. Please see the complete checklist here. The previous record of the species was from Kannankurichi Lake in 2015.

GSE Vasen Suli — GREATER SPOTTED EAGLE photographed by Senthil Kumar S

WHATSAPP QUIZ

On the occasion of Endemic Bird Day and Global Big Day, Salem Ornithological Foundation took a new approach of organizing and conducting a Quiz using WhatsApp messenger as a tool to raise awareness on the endemic birds of Salem. The quiz was conducted from 28 April to 3 May 2019. A total of fifteen questions were asked including call-based and pictorial questions. To see the list of questions and the results, please click here.

5th ENDEMIC BIRD DAY

On May 4, 2019, during the 5th Endemic Bird Day (coinciding with the Global Big Day) Salem birders recorded a total of 122 species and submitted 301 checklists. With such contribution, Salem was ranked as No.1 district in terms of total checklists and No.2 by species recorded in Tamil Nadu.

Ebd 2019

Notable sighting of the day was CINEREOUS TIT Parus cinereus recorded by Subramania Siva.

CITI by Siva — CINEREOUS TIT photographed by Subramania Siva

DAY WITH RAPTORS

On May 18, 2019 as many as nine species of birds of prey or raptors were recorded in good numbers on a single day in the Kuppanur Ghat section of Yercaud in Salem. The two teams of birders consisting Angeline Mano, Divya Subramani, Ganeshwar SV, Vadivukkarasi, Senthil Kumar and Subramania Siva sighted SHIKRA Accipiter badius, BLACK KITE Milvus migrans, ORIENTAL (Crested) HONEY-BUZZARD Pernis ptilorhynchus, RED-NECKED FALCON Falco chicquera, SHAHEEN FALCON Falco peregrinus peregrinator, CRESTED SERPENT EAGLE Spilornis cheela, CHANGEABLE HAWK-EAGLE Nisaetus cirrhatus, RUFOUS-BELLIED EAGLE Lophotriorchis kienerii and the BLACK EAGLE Ictinaetus malaiensis.

RBEA by Angeline — RUFOUS-BELLIED EAGLE photographed by Angeline Mano

CSE 2 by AM — CRESTED SERPENT EAGLE photographed by Angeline Mano

NEW RECORD

On May 24, 2019, Subramania Siva and Senthil Kumar recorded a ORIENTAL PRATINCOLE Glareola maldivarum in Mettur, which is the first record for Salem. Please see the complete checklist here.

ORPR by Suli — ORIENTAL PRATINCOLE in flight photographed by Subramania Siva

EXPLORING THE LESSER KNOWN

On June 1 & 2, 2019, a team of birders consisting of Rajangam Periyasamy, Senthil Kumar S, Subramania Siva, Angeline Mano, Tamil Selvan A and Ganeshwar SV set out to explore the lesser known Pachaimalai Hills located in the Gangavalli taluk of Salem district. They recorded 66 species including the rare YELLOW-THROATED BULBUL Pycnonotus xantholaemus.

Pachamalai 1 by AM — A small water catchment near the roadside. Photograph by Angeline Mano

Pachamalai 2 by AM — PACHAIMALAI HILLS photographed by Angeline Mano

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY

On June 5, 2019, World Environment Day was celebrated in the birding clubs of schools associated with Salem Ornithological Foundation including Panchayat Union Middle Schools Thalavaipatty & Krishnampudur, Panchayat Union Primary School, Puzhuthikuttai. Students took a pledge that they would be eco-friendly citizens. The events were coordinated by the teacher birders and was supported by the Head Masters.

NEW CALL RECORD

On June 29, 2019, Abilash Chandrapal, Tamil Selvan A and Angeline Mano photographed and recorded the calls of INDIAN CUCKOO Cuculus micropterus which is a rarity to Salem. Please see the complete checklist here.

INCU by Angeline — INDIAN CUCKOO photographed by Angeline Mano

RESCUE & RELEASE

On June 30, 2019, due to some unknown reason, a female ASIAN KOEL Eudynamys scolopaceus had fallen from a tree and was caught by a cat. With the support of Kalaiselvan V, four children R.K. Divya, R.K. Tharun, K. Navanithan and K. Bala rescued the injured bird, kept it for overnight observation and released it safely the next day morning.

Rescue kalai 30 jun — Rescued ASIAN KOEL female photographed by Kalaiselvan V

DARTER – Vol. 3 – Issue 2 (Apr-Jun 2019) Read More »

DARTER – Vol. 3 – Issue 1 (Jan-Mar 2019)

1 Comment / 2019 / Salem Ornithological Foundation

EDITOR’S NOTE

“This has to be one of the best of first three months in birding activities that Salem district has witnessed in the past few years. Due to the dedicated efforts by birders, four new bird species (including rarities) have been added to the checklist of Salem. Our birders also put up an incredible show during the three (annual) major bird counts–AWC, PBC and GBBC. Many new people have started birding and especially more women coming forward is very promising and the future of Salem Birding looks bright. We thank our District Forest Officer A. Periyasamy, I.F.S. for granting us to do a write up and translate his lucid speech on forest fires. With the summer being relentless, we request birders (and everyone) to take sufficient measures to keep safe from the heat and watch birds. Sightings and records which are entered in eBird are only taken into account towards the writing of this e-magazine.” —Ganeshwar SV.

ASIAN WATERBIRD CENSUS

Several birders from many parts of Salem district took part in the Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) conducted from January 5 to 20, 2019. The AWC also welcomes counts from any date in January. Checklists were shared with AWC India eBird account and AWC Wetland Assessment Form was also filled and submitted for each wetland covered. Salem birders collectively documented 139 species during the event.

LRPL_Vasen_Suli — LITTLE RINGED PLOVER, one of the common shorebirds seen during AWC. Photograph by Senthil Kumar S

NEW RECORD (1)

During AWC, on January 6, 2019, Senthil Kumar spotted a SPOTTED REDSHANK Tringa erythropus at Mettur which is the first record for Salem. Please see the complete checklist here.

SPRE_Vasen_Suli — SPOTTED REDSHANK photographed by Senthil Kumar S

5th PONGAL BIRD COUNT

During the Pongal Bird Count (PBC), birders of Salem district especially from Salem Ornithological Foundation made huge contributions and it is a motivating gesture to see that nearly all the Top 10 birders are from our team. Many thanks and congratulations to all the participants. Please click here to see the complete results of Pongal Bird Count 2019. We thank S.P. Saravanan of The Hindu for his continued support to our activities.

2019 Jan 25 — In THE HINDU on January 25, 2019

TEAM PALM SWIFT

During the Pongal Bird Count, Team Palm Swift comprising of three crazy birders Arulvelan Thillainayagam, Selvaganesh K and Hareesha AS set out to cover the entire Tamil nadu and Puducherry in just three days. They travelled 2,085 KM and submitted 439 eBird checklists. Do have a read about their incredible journey, here. Also please see their complete checklist from Salem which they put during their journey. Salem Ornithological Foundation congratulates the birders for their inspiring effort.

NEW RECORD (2)

On February 10, 2019, Senthil Kumar recorded KENTISH PLOVER Charadrius alexandrinus for the first time in Salem. Please see the complete checklist here.

KEPL_Senthil_Kumar — KENTISH PLOVER photographed by Senthil Kumar

7th GREAT BACKYARD BIRD COUNT

The global Great Backyard Bird Count takes place every year over four days (Friday – Monday) around the middle of February. Since it is carried out at around the same time every year, GBBC helps create an annual, real-time snapshot of what birds are where. GBBC 2019, which took place from 15th – 18th February 2019, was the seventh in India.

Notably, among all the districts in the world (‘counties’ in eBird parlance), Salem, a district in Tamil Nadu had uploaded the most number of checklists– 8420! (Source:BCI) Birders of Salem district especially from Salem Ornithological Foundation made huge contributions and except one or two ranks, the Top 10 birders in the World and India are from our team. To see the complete results of Great Backyard Bird Count–India, please click here.

(Note: the numbers on the eBird website may differ a little from those presented in Bird Count India because of slight differences in methods of calculation)

NEW RECORD (3)

On the second day of GBBC, February 16, 2019, Senthil Kumar recorded EASTERN ORPHEAN WARBLER Sylvia crassirostris at Chinna Mettur. This is the first record of the bird from Salem. Please see the complete checklist here.

EOWA_Senthil_Kumar_Feb_16 — EASTERN ORPHEAN WARBLER photographed by Senthil Kumar

EXEMPLARY WORK BY OUR FOREST DEPARTMENT

During the last week of February, a serious forest fire broke out in the foothills of Yercaud. Three men were arrested for causing the fire. The District Administration and the Salem Forest Department did an amazing job in controlling the forest fire. Our District Forest Officer A. Periyasamy, I.F.S. appealed to the public to cooperate in protecting the forests from forest fires during summer. To read the English version of the speech by our DFO, please click here.

Screenshot (56)

NEW RECORD (4)

On March 3, 2019, R. Venkatraman (Thirumalai RT Venkatraman) spotted and photographed a TICKELL’S THRUSH Turdus unicolor at Yercaud. This is the first record of the species in Salem. Please see the complete checklist here. There are just nine previous records of Tickell’s Thrush in Tamil Nadu out of which only three are with photographs (Source: eBird). Hence, this sighting with an image from Salem is indeed a great one.

TITH_Venkatraman — TICKELL’S THRUSH photographed by R. Venkatraman

EMERGING WOMEN BIRDERS OF SALEM

To encourage more women participation in birding activities, women birders of Salem Ornithological Foundation are doing their best to encourage more people and they have started to emerge as an inspiration to others in the district and State. On the occasion of International Women’s Day, Salem Ornithological Foundation has featured the prominent women birders of Salem as well as the names of others in an exclusive article. To know more about our women power, please click here. SOF_women_birders_2019

SPRING TREE QUEST

Any activity which involves birds is sure to make our birders get going. The ‘Spring Tree Quest’ was a four-day, country-wide, rapid assessment of the phenology of common Indian trees. Several Salem birders were very enthusiastic and participated in the event from 15 to 18 March 2019. Please see the complete results of the Spring Tree Quest, here.

Thalavaipatty_STQ_2019 — Students of P.U.M.S Thalavaipatty along with their teacher Rajangam P during the Spring Tree Quest

POACHERS ARRESTED!

On the night of March 16, 2019, under the order and support of District Forest Officer A. Periyasamy, I.F.S, a patrol team headed by Forest Ranger Paramasivam along with Forest Guard Siva Kumar other staffs Thiyagarajan, Santhakumar and Muthaiyan, arrested two poachers who illegally entered into forests and poached Grey Francolins Francolinus pondicerianus. The 31 rescued birds and a hare was handed over to the Kurumbapatti Zoological Park. The culprits were fined Rs. 5,000 INR each.

Poachers_arrest_Mar2019 — via Forest Guard Siva Kumar’s Facebook profile

WORLD SPARROW DAY

On March 20, 2019, World Sparrow Day was celebrated with focus not just on sparrows but on all the common birds around us. Students from Panchayat Union Primary Schools at Neermullikuttai, Kurichi and Puzhuthikuttai and Panchayat Union Middle Schools at Thalavaipatty and Krishnampudur participated in large numbers. They were guided by their teachers Rajangam P, Kalaiselvan V and Senthil Kumar S.

WSD_2019_SOF — ABOVE: Drawing by Harish, P.U.M.S, Kurichi. BELOW: Students of Indian Roller Birding Club of P.U.M.S, Thalavaipatty

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF FORESTS

The UN International Day of Forests was celebrated in several schools associated with Salem Ornithological Foundation in partnership with Tamil Nadu Science Forum. Special mention must be made of the students of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Thulir Illam belonging to Panchayat Union Middle School, Thalavaipatty. Their teacher Rajangam P explained the several aspects forests and their importance. A documentary film ‘Save Our Sholas’ by the renowned wildlife filmmaker Shekar Dattatri was also screened.

IFD_SOF_2019 — Students of APJ Kalam Thulir Illam and Indian Roller Birding Club of P.U.M.S, Thalavaipatty watching the screened documentary on Sholas

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF WATER

The UN International Day for Water was celebrated across several schools associated with Salem Ornithological Foundation and Tamil Nadu Science Forum. The school teachers spoke in detail about the rising water crisis and the importance and need to act to conserve water. Students pledged to take necessary measures.

WWD_PUMS_Thalavaipatty — Students of P.U.M.S Thalavaipatty with awareness placards on World Water Day

LIGHTS OFF!

Along with millions of people around the world, members of Salem Ornithological Foundation took part in the Earth Hour 2019 to save energy and fight climate change. 2019_Earth_Hour

STUDENTS’ CORNER

Under the guidance of their headmaster Senthil Kumar S, students of Panchayat Union Middle School, Krishnampudur prepared their own nest boxes for birds. After few months, birds such as Indian Robin, Yellow-billed Babbler have started to use the nest boxes and pots which were hung in the trees within the school campus. Due to this, all students have developed a deep concern for the birds around them. YBBA_Pot_Krishnampudur

The following sketches were drawn by 7th standard students–P Hemalatha, K Kiruthika and S Vasanthapriya of Panchayat Union Middle School, Thalavaipatty. The students say that it is one of their hobbies to draw their favorite birds as well as other colorful ones during their leisure time. They are ably supported by Rajangam P, their teacher.

DARTER – Vol. 3 – Issue 1 (Jan-Mar 2019) Read More »

DARTER – Vol. 2 – Issue 4 (Oct-Dec 2018)

3 Comments / 2018 / Salem Ornithological Foundation

EDITOR’S NOTE

“Right from the beginning of the migratory season, birders are not only exploring new locations but also they are dedicated to monitor old ones to catch some new and rare birds. The tremendous efforts by our birders have resulted in some excellent records and high counts in the last quarter of 2018. As usual, outreach works are going strong and steady. With this 8th issue, DARTER successfully completes two years of online publication. Full credits to birders, readers, seniors and all well-wishers for their continued support. Sightings and records which are entered in eBird are only taken into account towards the writing of this e-magazine.” —Ganeshwar SV.

OCTOBER BIG DAY

During the October Big Day on October 6, 2018, birders collectively recorded 96 species and submitted 209 checklists in total. The participants were Subramania Siva, Senthil Kumar, Vadivukkarasi, Angeline Mano, Pradeepa Sudhakar, Jayalalitha Pagadala and students of Krishnampudur. At the State-level, Salem district was ranked 2nd and 3rd place in terms of number of checklists and number of species respectively. The interesting sighting of the day was OSPREY Pandion haliaetus by Subramania Siva. Please see the complete checklist here.

NOTABLE SIGHTING

On October 28, 2018, Kasiviswanathan A photographed a Fork-tailed Drongo-Cuckoo Surniculus dicruroides near Kurumbapatti which happens to be the second record for Salem. Please see the complete checklist here.

FTDC by KVA — A FORK-TAILED DRONGO-CUCKOO photographed by Kasiviswanathan A

OUTREACH (1)

On November 2, 2018, Rajangam P gave an interesting introductory talk on ‘Birding and Common Birds’ at Jayam Academy CBSE Campus and encouraged the students to a short session of Campus Bird Count.

Rajangam P at Jayam Academy — Rajangam P during his presentation

NEW RECORD (1)

On November 4, 2018, Senthil Kumar and Vadivukkarasi A photographed COMMON CUCKOO Cuculus canorus (is actually not common but rare) at Pannavadi, Mettur which is the first record for Salem. They sighted five individuals of the species. Please see the complete checklist here.

COCU by Vadivu — Young COMMON CUCKOO photographed by Vadivukkarasi A

SÁLIM ALI BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

To commemorate the birth anniversary of legendary ornithologist, Dr. Salim Ali, several programs such as classroom presentations with songs and games, drawing competitions, bird walks were conducted at many schools including Panchayat Union Primary School, Neermullikuttai (conducted by Kalaiselvan V), Panchayat Union Middle School, Krishnampudur (Senthil Kumar S) and Panchayat Union Middle School, Thalavaipatty (Rajangam P).

KSS by SS — One of drawings by a student of P.U.M.S. Krishnampudur

YERCAUD EXPERIENCE

During the last week of November, school teacher and a well-known birder Selvaganesh K visited Yercaud with his friends. Though he says it was a non-birding trip, his experience tells us a different story. Please have a read about it, here.

OHT by SGK — ORANGE-HEADED THRUSH photographed by Selvaganesh K at Yercaud

5TH TAMIL BIRDERS MEET

With more than 160 participants from many parts of Tamil Nadu and neighboring states, the 5th Tamil Birders Meet was the best so far. It was organized by Wildlife Association of Rajapalayam (WAR) in association with TamilBirds. WAR deserves a huge and special appreciation for their stellar efforts in organizing this memorable meet in a wonderful manner.

Nineteen members from Salem Ornithological Foundation participated in the event which was the second largest representation from a district after SACON, Coimbatore.

NEW CALL RECORD

Inspired by one of Kerala’s senior birders, Namassivayan Lakshmanan’s talk on Tips for Bird Call Recordings, many Salem birders started to record bird calls. That resulted in a fantastic record recently. On December 7, 2018, Ganeshwar SV and Divya Subramani recorded the call of STRIATED HERON Butorides striata at Kannankurichi Mookaneri Lake. This is the first call record of the bird to be entered in eBird India. To hear the call, please see the complete checklist here.

eBIRD HIGH COUNTS

S.No.	COMMON NAME	HIGH COUNT	OBSERVER	DATE 2018
1	Black-winged Kite	5	Senthil Kumar	October 6
2	Barn Swallow	2500	Vadivukkarasi A	October 6
3	Red-wattled Lapwing	42	Rajangam P	November 2
4	Common Cuckoo	5	Vadivukkarasi A	November 4
5	Rufous Babbler	5	Selvaganesh K	November 21
6	Crested Treeswift	30	Selvaganesh K	November 22
7	White-bellied Drongo	9	Karthick VS	November 25
8	Small Pratincole	32	Subramania Siva	December 9
9	Tree Pipit	10	Senthil Kumar	December 9
10	Common Myna	150	Elavarasan M	December 11

SMPR by Siva — SMALL PRATINCOLE photographed by Subramania Siva

NEW RECORD (2)

On December 9, 2018, Kasiviswanathan A spotted and photographed the juvenile of EGYPTIAN VULTURE Neophron percnopterus at Kannankurichi (Mookaneri) Lake. Please see the complete checklist here.

The other and only evidence for previous published sighting of the Egyptian Vulture around Salem comes from a statement in the Vernay Scientific Survey of the Eastern Ghats, conducted in 1929—“on the eastern side (of Madras Presidency), there is very little information. The Survey reported a single bird on the Chitteri plateau.” Today, most of the Chitteri range falls outside Salem’s political boundaries. Hence, this sighting by Kasiviswanathan A is the first record with a photograph and carries much significance. This is also the one and only sighting of Egyptian Vulture in the entire Tamil Nadu for the year 2018. (Source: Tamil Nadu eBird)

OUTREACH (2)

On December 13, 2018, Rajangam P gave a talk about several aspects of birding as well as his experience and learning from the 5th Tamil Birders Meet in the Thursday weekly meeting of Tamil Nadu Science Forum, Salem.

TNSF 13Dec2018 — Rajangam P sharing his experience in birding

BIRD WALK (1)

Inspired by P Rajangam’s talk, Bharath Kumar K and Suresh G coordinated several members from Tamil Nadu Science Forum (Gugai branch) with the help of Shanmugasundaram to participate in a Bird Walk at Kannankurichi Mookaneri Lake on December 15, 2018. The bird walk was led by members of Salem Ornithological Foundation in which twelve people participated.

BW KML — Participants of the Bird Walk with artist & photographer Kasiviswanathan A (in camo)

A FAMILY’S EFFORTS

It is well-known that the family of Senthil Kumar S, Vadivukkarasi A and Subramania Siva S are birders. Since their first sighting of White-naped Tit Machlolophus nuchalis, they have been monitoring the species throughout this year. On December 15, 2018, they saw the bird for the 12th time! Please see the complete checklist here. However, the sightings haven’t come that easy. Senthil Kumar S says that he and his family visited the location for more than 75 times this year. Salem Ornithological Foundation applauds and salutes the family for their consistent efforts in bird monitoring.

This also the only place in the entire Southern India where the bird has been sighted eleven times in the same spot. In Tamil Nadu, the White-naped Tit is known to occur only in Salem district till date. (Source: eBird India)

WNT by Siva 9 dec — WHITE-NAPED TIT photographed by Subramania Siva

OUTREACH (3)

On December 30, 2018, one of our members, Tamil Selvan A was invited to give a talk on birds in the General Body meeting of Civic EXNORA. The program was coordinated by Shanmugasundaram of Tamil Nadu Science Forum (Gugai) in which 42 people participated.

TSA — Part of the keen crowd listening to Tamil Selvan A

BEGIN YOUR NEW YEAR WITH BIRDS

Are you a bird lover looking to begin your New Year with birds? Don’t know where to start? We have got several New Year Birding Resolutions for both amateurs and veterans. An article written by one of our members was published on December 29, 2018 in ‘The Hindu Tamil’ under ‘Uyir Moochu’ section. Do give a read here. To know more and to participate in the monthly and yearlong eBirding challenges by BirdCount India, please click here.

The following photographs are from the last three months, clicked by Salem birders and each of it has be uploaded to eBird by the respective observers. May your life be as colorful as birds!

Salem Ornithological Foundation heartily wishes a Happy New Year 2019 to everyone to have a peaceful and prosperous life with more memorable moments in the wild!

DARTER – Vol. 2 – Issue 4 (Oct-Dec 2018) Read More »

DARTER – Vol. 2 – Issue 3 (Jul-Sep 2018)

2018 / Salem Ornithological Foundation

EDITOR’S NOTE

“Our birders are always on the move and get something even if it is off season to look for special birds. Nothing slows them down. An iconic bird sighted after nearly nine decades, field trip, outreach, a rescue and more student activities have all made this third quarterly issue a fantastic one. Don’t miss the quiz which is waiting for you in the end! The migrants have already started to arrive and let’s all go catch some cool birds from foreign countries. Happy birding; have a great season ahead!”-Ganeshwar SV.

NEW RECORD (1)

On July 1, 2018, Senthil Kumar and Subramania Siva S recorded INDIAN GREY HORNBILL Ocyceros birostris in Salem after 89 years. This is the first known photographic evidence of the bird from the district. The previous published record was during the Vernay Scientific Survey of the Eastern Ghats in 1929. Please see the complete checklist here.

IGHO by Subramania Siva Jul 1 — An INDIAN GREY HORNBILL photographed by Subramania Siva in Salem

DREAM SHOT

Though the ASIAN PALM SWIFT Cypsiurus balasiensis is one of the common birds, it is the dream of every birder to capture it when perched. Our birder and teacher Kalai Selvan V has done just that in one of his birding sessions!

3 July — ASIAN PALM SWIFT at nest photographed by Kalai Selvan V

FESTIVAL OF TREES

Students of Indian Roller Birding Club belonging to Panchayat Union Middle School, Thalavaipatty, celebrated ‘Van Mahotsav’ (festival of trees) to create awareness in the minds of people about conservation of forests and planting of new trees. The students were ably supported and encouraged by their teacher and birder, Rajangam P.

Van Mahotsav 2 — Rajangam P distributing tree saplings to students

FIELD TRIP

On August 18, 2018, Kalai Selvan V and his students from Green Bee-eater Birding Club visited Godumalai, a hillock around Neermullikuttai and learnt to identify several common birds in their region.

WILDLIFE IN NATIVE LANGUAGE

On August 25, 2018, Kalai Selvan V introduced several books and magazines on Wildlife in Tamil to promote the habit of reading and better understanding of Nature among the students of Panchayat Union Primary School, Neermullikuttai.

25 Aug — Class IV students with wildlife magazines and books. Photograph by Kalai Selvan V

SOWING SEEDS OF LIFE

On August 20, 2018, students of Panchayat Union Primary School, Neermullkuttai prepared the nursery bags with seeds of several trees with the help of their teacher Kalai Selvan V. The students repeated the process twice in August.

Sap — Students busy preparing nursery bags with seeds of *Bixa orellana*

NEW RECORD (2)

On September 2, 2018, Senthil Kumar and Subramania Siva S recorded LESSER FISH EAGLE Haliaaetus humilis which is the first record with a photograph. Please see the complete checklist here.

LFE by Subramania Siva — A LESSER FISH EAGLE photographed by Subramania Siva

NEW RECORD (3)

On September 21, 2018, Senthilkumar S photographed WHITE-TAILED IORA Aegithina nigrolutea for the first time in Salem. Please see the complete checklist here. The previous record (call record) is by Patrick David J in his “Preliminary assessment of avian diversity and abundance in Shevroy hill range, Eastern Ghats, Tamil Nadu,” which was published in the Newsletter for Birdwatchers (Vol.52: No.5; Sep-Oct 2012).

WTIO by Subramania Siva — A WHITE-TAILED IORA photographed by Senthil Kumar

RESCUE

“Few days ago, a BARRED BUTTONQUAIL Turnix suscitator was mobbed by Crows. Seeking shelter somewhere, it entered our home. ‘God has sent you to the right place,’ I thought to myself. After an hour of allowing it to rest, I took it to a nearby forest area and it was released by my son Tharun. This is the third species to be saved by his hands. Every time when we rescue a bird, since he is a child, he used to say, ‘Appa, let us keep and take care of it.’ I had explained to him several times in a simple way, why it is bad for the bird to be kept at home. He seemed to have understood and these days he tells me that rescued birds are to be released for their good.”

– Kalai Selvan V about his rescue on September 24, 2018.

BBQ Kalai Selvan September — A BARRED BUTTONQUAIL rescued by Kalai Selvan V

OUTREACH

On September 27, 2018, Kalai Selvan V gave an interesting introductory talk on Birding at Pachayat Union Middle School, Kurichi and took the students for a Bird Walk around the school campus.

Kurichi 6 — On song! Kalai Selvan V making the session a fun-filled one

STUDENTS’ CORNER

Inspired by Kalai Selvan V, a fifth class student named Kasinathan V has started birding regularly and sketching birds has become his favorite pastime. Salem Ornithological Foundation appreciates the continuous efforts taken by the teacher and congratulates the student for his beautiful sketches.

Can you identify and name all the birds in the sketch? Do post your answers in the comments.

DARTER – Vol. 2 – Issue 3 (Jul-Sep 2018) Read More »