Bird lovers could not have had it better in eastern Assam’s Jorhat with Ecornis (Ecology & Ornithology) Society, a recently formed forum by a few nature and bird lovers, taking an initiative to create awareness about conservation of birds and nature among the upcoming generation.
In this regard Ecornis has begun organizing familiarization sessions every Sunday morning for college and school students and nature lovers on the banks of the historic Ahom-era Rajmao Pukhuri.
Miraz Hussain, founder of the forum, a Ph D student of Assam University and also the District Environment Coordinator under Assam Rural Infrastructure and Agricultural Services Society (ARIASS), said that he along with Firoz Hussain, a noted bird watcher and a professional bird guide of the region, had started the initiative initially by opening a page in social media.
After getting encouraging response from people, especially youngsters, the duo had decided to hold sessions on Sundays to initiate bird lovers on the avian species which are resident and those which migrate in droves to this region during winter.
He added that three sessions have been held so far with the last one being held on last Sunday.
“Birds are a major component of the eco-system and with plenty of species found in the north-east region, which is among the internationally recognized bird hotspots, there is a need to involve the youth in conservation efforts,” Hussain said.
Firoz Hussain, who has jointly conducted the sessions, said that the aim of the initiative, identification of birds, about their habitats and how to contribute towards conservation are described in a session.
Firoz further said that the pond bank has been chosen for the sessions as the area is full of trees where birds are abundant.
He said that the forum has plans to take bird lovers to important birding areas in the countryside of Jorhat and adjoining districts.