bnhs membership programme
DESCRIPTION
Nature walks and Camps in IndiaTRANSCRIPT
BHARATPUR NATIONAL PARK
Vol. 1. Issue 1
BI-MONTHLY PROGRAMME for January-February 2013
ONE DAY PROGRAMMES
JANUARY13th Jan Winter Trail at Shilonda18th Jan Global Warming: a reality. Talk by Rashida Atthar19th Jan Flamingo Watch at Sewri
FEBRUARY3rd Feb Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary16th Feb Flamingo Watch at Sewri17th Feb Yeoor Hills24th Feb Nagla Forest Trail
WEEKEND CAMPS
January Birding Trilogy: Forest Birds, Raptors, and WadersFebruary Birding camp Nandur Madhmeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
NATIONAL CAMPS
January LITTLE RANN OF KUTCHJanuary KEOLADEO NATIONAL PARK & CHAMBAL RIVER CAMPFebruary CHILIKA LAKEMarch KAZIRANGA & NAMERI NATIONAL PARKMarch EAGLENEST WILDLIFE SANCTUARYApril NORTH SIKKIMApril BIRDING AT BENONG HILL MUSSOORIEMay GIR NATIONAL PARK - The Last RefugeMay TADOBA NATIONAL PARKJuly LADAKH - Land Safari
INTERNATIONAL CAMPS
March 2013 African Safari - TanzaniaMay 2013 Wild Borneo, Malaysia
BI-MONTHLY PROGRAMMEJanuary-February 2013
EAGLENEST WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Programmes at CEC - Mumbai
1st January, 2013Ref. No. 0004/2013
Dear Member
By the time you read my letter, we will have entered the year 2013, so Happy New Year. As I have written a couple
of times, although our membership is very low, less than 5,000, the quality of our membership is very high as we
have some top class people with us. One of the members who has made us proud is Soonoo Taraporewala.
I have known Soonoo for more than 20 years as she is a regular participant of BNHS functions. She is also a
member of our Library Subcommittee. I always found her sober, dignified, thoughtful, and scholarly – perfect
qualities of a librarian which she was for 20 years in the British Council in Mumbai. I have also noticed that she
puts very intelligent questions to speakers during BNHS lectures or slide shows – again proving her depth of
knowledge of different subjects. Soonoo loves literature, classical music, travel and photography, and of course,
wildlife due to which she is a member of BNHS for many decades. I did not know that she is also a writer.
I was pleasantly surprised when I received an invitation for a book release function on 18 December from the
British Council. It was followed by a personal note from Soonoo in my email. Being a book lover and avid reader,
how could I refuse an invitation when the book was on Fateh Singh Rathore of Ranthambore, written by Soonoo?
It was a lovely function, as all British Council functions are, with a riveting extempore introduction by my great
friend Dr. Divyabhanusinh, President of WWF-India and naturalist and writer, followed by a passionate Powerpoint
presentation by Soonoo on her association with Fateh Singh and Ranthambore. She spoke from the heart and
showed lovely pictures of her two heroes: Fateh Singh and the Tiger. After the book release she was mobbed by
her admirers, so I could not get an autographed copy of her book. Next day, she presented me an autographed
copy in my office – a gesture which I will cherish all my life. Like a true BNHS supporter, she has gifted two copies
of her book to our Library.
I knew Fateh Singh Rathore and was always an admirer of his exemplary work of creating Ranthambore National
Park in the 1970s from a degraded and over-grazed dry deciduous and thorn forest, over-run by cattle and
people. It was too difficult to resist reading the book on him, despite the fact that I had two other unread books
in line. Once I started, it was difficult to put it down. I can only say it is a remarkable authorized biography of a
remarkable man by a remarkable BNHS member. We are thankful to Soonoo Taraporewala for giving us such a
lovely New Year gift. The book is published by Penguin. I urge members to purchase it before it is exhausted. I
was told that only 2,000 copies were printed. I am sure it will go for many print runs. We will keep some copies
in BNHS so you can order the book (Rs 499/- postage extra) from us.
(contd....)
November and December were quite hectic for us, with three book releases: first on Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary,
the second on Rani Bagh and then Sunjoy Monga’s book for children. The book Daroji: An Ecological Destination was
indeed a pleasant surprise. Not many knew about this unique Sloth Bear sanctuary, just 15 km from Hampi, in
North Karnataka. This rock-strewn region in Bellary district has been known for Sloth Bears, but only in October
1994, the Government of Karnataka declared 5,587.30 hectares of Bilikallu Reserve Forest as Daroji Bear Sanctuary.
This well-written book is filled with outstanding photographs and makes enjoyable reading. The book is written
by Samad Kottur, Vijay Mohan Raj and Ganesh H. Shankar. Samad gave a wonderful presentation after the book
was released by Mrs. Pheroza Godrej.
Another splendid publication, Rani Bagh – 150 Years was released at Hornbill House by the former commissioner
of the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai, Shri D.M. Sukthankar, to mark the 150th anniversary of Mumbai’s
botanical garden - Jijamata Udyan. This coffee-table book brings to us the culture, period, fauna, flora and
people involved in the making of this only heritage botanical garden of Mumbai. This is a joint publication of the
BNHS, National Society for the Friends of the Trees and the Save Rani Bagh Botanical Garden Foundation.
This well-made book is mainly the result of the efforts of the Save Rani Bagh Botanical Garden Foundation. I am
sure you remember this group who had once locked horns with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)
to prevent the BMC’s plans to convert Jijamata Udyan, a green haven, into a concrete amusement park in
February 2007.
The launch of Kidzbirds in Urban India filled up the Hornbill House auditorium with children from several
schools. This book on birds is for children and grown-ups alike. The book written by Mr Sunjoy Monga was
launched by the celebrated young actor Darsheel Safary from Taare Zameen Par.
Your Society has brought out cards, calendars, and a diary for the year 2013. If you have not already bought
some, please do so quickly. Our products are sold not only to make profit but more importantly to spread the
message of conservation. The profit from the sale of products goes to nature conservation activities of your
Society.
As I wrote in my earlier letter, from 2013, we will go completely online and also number our Newsletter. Therefore,
this issue is Volume 1, Issue 1, 2013. This Newsletter will have pictures, detailed programmes, and BNHS circulars
to members. We will send the pdf format to all members who have given us their email ids. The Newsletter will
also be uploaded on our website, and a printed copy will be kept in our Library for record.
I request our members to see the revised Rules and Guidelines for BNHS Programmes on our website. The existing
rules and guidelines were revised to incorporate changes in the refund policies and booking norms of several
travel agencies, resorts, and airlines.
Our Programmes team lead by Isaac Kehimkar comes up with ideas for new travel destinations all the time. We are
planning to take our members to Borneo in May 2013. If you have not registered yourself, please book your seat
quickly as we have limited seats. I am sure, like our trip to Madagascar, our Borneo programme will also be
successful and members will enjoy it.
Best wishes
Asad R. Rahmani
Director
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One Day Programmes JANUARY, 2013
13th Jan WINTER TRAIL AT SHILONDA
Sun Winter mornings on this trail are always rewarding. The trail offers good flora and fauna; butterflies like
Baronet, Common Leopard, and Striped Tiger, also birds like Loten’s Sunbird, Common Iora, Southern
Coucal, Grey Junglefowl, and occasionally mammals like Spotted and Sambar Deer can be seen on this
trail. This trail leads through fine mixed forest dominated by bamboo and ends at the first stream. This
trail within Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) is not accessible without permission. Grade: Easy (Simple
walk for 1.5 km each way, however the walk from main gate to the trail is about 15-20 min.) Reporting:
Members to meet inside the SGNP, beyond the Ticket Counter under the large map of SGNP at 7.30 a.m.
Group Leaders: Mr. Vinod Patil & Ms. Parveen Shaikh Charges: Rs. 150 for members, Rs. 200/- for others
(includes Forest Department permission fees and BNHS expertise only). Registration*: ON THE SPOT. For
details contact us at [email protected] or call 022-22821811/22871202 Note: Participants have
to buy the entry ticket at the main gate. Kindly carry adequate water and packed breakfast. The
programme should conclude by 11.30 a.m.
18th Jan GLOBAL WARMING: A REALITY. TALK BY RASHIDA ATTHARFri The presentation is based on Al Gore’s climate reality project and is the most updated on the current
situation of climate change in the world. The presentation will cover various phenomena associated with
the reality of climate change and science behind the climate change. The linkages of the Mumbai forest
with climate change will also be presented. Solutions and day to day practical measures and adaptations
are another interesting part of the presentation.
Speaker: Ms Rashida Atthar is a climate leader personally trained by Mr. Al Gore, former Vice-President of
USA and founder chairman of the Climate Reality Project.
Date: Friday, 18th January, 2013 Time: 6.00 p.m. Venue: BNHS, Hornbill House. All are invited with
friends and family.
19th Jan FLAMINGO WATCH AT SEWRI
Sun Graceful Lesser and Greater Flamingo can be seen feeding at the Sewri Mudflats. Experience this unique
opportunity to view them and learn about these magnificent visitors. Sewri Mudflats is also the place to
watch many migratory birds such as Broad-billed, Common, Green and Terek Sandpiper, Whimbrel, Eurasian
Curlew, and the White-throated, Common and Black-capped Kingfisher. Group leaders: Mr. Asif Khan & Mr.
Vinod Patil Charges: Rs. 100/- for members and Rs. 150/- for others. Reporting: Outside Sewri (East)
railway station at the railway crossing junction at 7.30 a.m. How to Reach: Sewri railway station is on the
Harbour line accessible from CST, Andheri, and Navi Mumbai. By road: Reach Sewri (East) railway station
from Parel or Dadar and cross over at the railway level crossing. One can also approach Sewri Jetty from
the bridge at Wadala or Reay Road to the Mumbai Port Trust Road. Registration: On the spot. The
programme will conclude by 11.30 a.m.
Click below for the Google map links
Drive to Sewri
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FEBRUARY, 2013
3rd Feb TUNGARESHWAR WILDLIFE SANCTUARYSun Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated north of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), and forms a
corridor for the animals between SGNP and Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary. This trail is lined with lianas and adense mixed deciduous forest. During this season one can see good butterfly diversity like Chocolate Pansyand Sailor, also birds including Rufous Treepie, Ashy Drongo, Yellow-eyed Babbler, Crested Serpent Eagle,Brown-headed Barbet, Shikra, Verditer Flycatcher and many more. Grade: Easy Group leaders: Mr. VandanJhaveri & Mr. Vinod Patil Charges: Rs. 700/- for members and Rs. 750/- for others (Charges includetransportation, entry and BNHS expertise). Reporting: Bus will leave from Dadar T.T. (near Chandu Halwai)at 6.30 a.m., Chembur (near Diamond Garden) at 6:50 a.m., Thane (Cadbury Jn.) 7.10 a.m. Patlipada busstand (Hiranandani Junction on Ghodbunder Rd.) 7.20 a.m. Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 22871202/22821811 or e-mail: [email protected] Note: Kindly carry adequate water and breakfast. Thegroup should be back in Dadar by 1.00 p.m.
16th Feb FLAMINGO WATCH AT SEWRISat If you have missed the previous Flamingo Watch, join BNHS to witness these graceful Lesser and Greater
Flamingos which can be seen feeding at the Sewri Mudflats. Experience this unique opportunity to view themand learn about these magnificent visitors. Sewri Mudflats are also the place to watch many migratory birdssuch as Broad-billed, Common, Green and Terek Sandpiper, Whimbrel, Eurasian Curlew, and the White-throated, Common and Black-capped Kingfisher. Group leaders: Mr. Asif Khan & Mr. Vinod PatilCharges: Rs. 100/- for members and Rs. 150/- for others. Reporting: Outside Sewri (East) railway station atthe railway crossing junction at 7.30 a.m. How to Reach: Sewri railway station is on the Harbour line, accessiblefrom CST, Andheri, and Navi Mumbai. By road: Reach Sewri (East) railway station from Parel or Dadar andcross over at the railway level crossing. One can also approach Sewri Jetty from the bridge at Wadala or ReayRoad to the Mumbai Port Trust Road. Registration: On the spot. The programme will conclude by 11.30 a.m.Click below for the Google map linksDrive to Sewri
17th Feb YEOOR HILLSSun Yeoor Hills is a part of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park approachable from Thane; not known to many, this
forest has been preserved in pristine condition. The mixed deciduous forest harbours birds like White-browed Bulbul, Purple and Purple-rumped Sunbird, Indian Grey Hornbill, Greater Coucal, Indian Blackbird,Gold-fronted Leafbird, Crested Serpent Eagle and many more. Other fauna like Long-horned Grasshoppers,Katydids, Bark Scorpion, Giant Wood Spider, and Ant Lion can also be spotted.Group Leaders: Mr. Vandan Jhaveri and Mr. Vinod Patil Charges: Rs. 700/- for members, Rs. 750/- for others(Cost includes travelling and BNHS expertise). Reporting: Bus will leave from Dadar T.T. (near ChanduHalwai) at 6.30 a.m., Chembur (near Diamond Garden) at 6:50 a.m., Thane (Cadbury Jn.) at 7.10 a.m.Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 22871202, 22821811 or e-mail: [email protected]
24th Feb NATURE TRAIL TO NAGLA FORESTSun Explore the lesser known forest of Nagla Block, Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Situated to the north of Bassein
Creek, Nagla Block is considered to be one of the highly rewarding walks near the city, covering a good rangeof woodland species and a few wetland species of birds at the creek side. Being close to the creek, thefringes of Nagla Block are rich wetlands consisting of freshwater streams and brackish waters. It is here thatthe diversity is at its best, for the deciduous forests mix with mangrove wetlands, rich in soil and plant matter.This is a good time to see birds like Common Sandpiper, Indian Grey Hornbill, Blue-headed Rock-thrush,Purple-rumped Sunbird, and butterflies like Psyche, Blue Tiger, Striped Tiger, and many more. Grade: Easy(Undulating walk of about 1.5 km one way) Group leaders: Mr. Vinod Patil & Mr. Sanal Nair Charges: Rs. 700/- for members, Rs. 750/- for others (Charges include transport and BNHS expertise) Reporting: Bus will leavefrom Dadar T.T. (near Chandu Halwai) at 6.30 a.m., Chembur (near Diamond Garden) at 6:50 a.m., Thane(Cadbury Jn.) 7.10 a.m., Patlipad bus stand (Hiranandani Junction on Ghodbunder Road) 7.20 a.m. Participantswill be back by 12.30 p.m. Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 22871202, 22821811 or [email protected] Note: Kindly carry adequate water, breakfast and snacks.
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WEEKENDCAMPSJANUARY, 2013
BIRDING TRILOGY:FOREST BIRDS, RAPTORS, ANDWADERSBirding Trilogy covers three habitats for watching three
different groups of birds: forest birds for which we
will be visiting Karnala Bird Sanctuary, waders and other
shorebirds will be watched at Akshi, and raptors or
birds of prey at Kankeshwar. We start off with birding
at Karnala Bird Sanctuary base forest. The evergreen
and semi-evergreen forest offers striking forest birds
like Purple, Purple-rumped, Crimson-backed and
Vigors’s Sunbird, Yellow-footed Green-pigeon, Asian
Paradise Flycatcher, Verditer, Tickell’s Blue, and Red-
breasted Flycatcher, Thick-billed, Pale-billed, and Nilgiri
Flowerpecker, Lesser Flameback, Rufous, and Heart-
spotted Woodpecker, White-bellied, Greater Racket-
tailed, and Bronzed Drongo and Gold-fronted Leafbird.
This is also a good time for warblers — Sulphur-bellied,
Greenish, Western Crowned, Hume’s, and Tickell’s Leaf-
warbler as well as Common Chiffchaff can be seen. Then
we move to Kankeshwar for an afternoon with raptors,
majestic and inimitable; these can be seen soaring
through the skies at Kankeshwar. On a good day one
can see White-eyed and Common Buzzard, White-bellied
Sea-eagle as well as Indian and Greater Spotted Eagle.
Finally, we end the camp with shorebirds at Akshi, where
elusive waders and other migrant birds like Ruddy
Turnstone, Sandwich and Gull-billed Tern, Brown, Black,
and Great Black-headed Gull, Eurasian Curlew, Common
and Terek Sandpiper, Lesser and Greater Sand Plover,
Little Ringed Plover and many more can be seen.
Grade: Moderate (Climbing the steps to reach Kankeshwar
is a bit strenuous)
Dates: 12th-13th January, 2013; limited registration
(Limited seats, 12 participants only).Group leaders: Mr. Asif Khan & Mr. Nikhil Bhopale
Camp Charges: Rs. 4500/- for members and Rs. 5100/- for
others (ex Mumbai).
Accommodation: Triple sharing basic accommodation.
Reporting: Bus will leave from Dadar, (near Chandu Halwai)
at 6.30 a.m., 6.50 a.m. from Chembur, (near Diamond
Garden) and Vashi Junction at 7.10 a.m.
Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 22821811 or
e-mail: [email protected]
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FEBRUARY 2013
BIRDING CAMPNANDUR MADHMESHWARWILDLIFE SANCTUARYAlso known as the Bharatpur of Maharashtra, Nandur
Madhmeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is an Important Bird
Area (IBA) and is home to many resident and migratory
birds.
Place to Visit: Nandur Madhmeshwar Wildlife
Sanctuary, Gangapur grassland, Harsul Reserve Forest
and Kashyape Dam.
Nandur Madhmeshwar offers sightings of Demoiselle
Crane, White Stork, Small Pratincole, Mallard, Woolly-
necked Stork, River Tern, and many more birds.
Gangapur grassland offers sightings of threatened birds
like Lesser Florican, Eastern Imperial Eagle, Long-billed
Vulture and Lesser Kestrel, and a lot more.
Grade: Easy
Dates: 8th-10th February, 2013
Group leaders: Mr. Asif Khan & Mr. Vandan Jhaveri
Camp Charges: Rs. 5200/- for members and Rs. 5800/-
for others (ex Mumbai).
Accommodations: Twin sharing tented.
Reporting: Bus will leave from Dadar (near Chandu
Halwai) at 6.30 a.m., 6.50 a.m. from Chembur (near
Diamond Garden), and Thane (Cadbury Junction) at
7.10 a.m.
Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 22821811/22871202
or e-mail [email protected]
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NATIONAL CAMPSJANUARY, 2013
LITTLE RANN OF KUTCHKnown for being the last refuge for the Indian Wild Ass,
Little Rann of Kutch is a large salt marsh situated in
Gujarat. The Little Rann of Kutch is a birding paradise
and a Ramsar Site. Birding at the lakes and marshes is
very rewarding. In winter, Demoiselle and Common Crane
are seen in large numbers. Flamingos, pelicans, storks,
ibises, spoonbill, a variety of ducks and other waterfowl
are also seen. The Rann is also the hunting ground of
raptors like the Short-toed Eagle, buzzards, Aquila eagles,
six species of falcons and three species of harriers. It is
one of the few places where hundreds of harriers can
be seen roosting on open ground at night. And of course,
it is a perfect place to see the Indian Wild Ass. The main
carnivores of the Little Rann of Kutch are the Indian
Wolf, Desert Fox, Indian Fox, Jackal, Desert and Jungle
Cat, and Striped Hyena. The elegant Blackbuck, Nilgai
or Blue Bull, and Chinkara are the other mammals seen
here.
Dates: 13th-16th January, 2013
Group leader: Mr. Vandan Jhaveri
Camp Charges: Rs. 14,000/- for members and Rs. 14,600/
- for others (ex Ahmedabad).
Accommodation: Twin sharing at Rann Riders
(www.rannriders.com)
Reporting: Ahmedabad railway station at 9.00 a.m. on day
one. Drop off at Ahmedabad at 6.00 p.m. on the last day
How to Reach: Ahmedabad is well connected by air, rail
and road with major cities. Rail: one can take the BDTS
JODHPUR EX (19065) which leaves Bandra Terminus at 23.25
hrs and arrives in Ahmedabad on the next day at 08.10 hrs
or ADI DOUBLE DECK (12931 / 12932)
Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 22871202, 22821811 or
e-mail [email protected]
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JANUARY, 2013
KEOLADEO NATIONAL PARK AND CHAMBAL CAMPFormerly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Keoladeo National Park is a paradise for birds and birdwatchers alike. It
is listed as an IBA (Important Bird Area) and is a World Heritage Site. Although small (29 sq. km), it is home to more than
375 species of birds, out of which more than 132 breed inside the Park. Birding here is a rewarding experience with
sightings like Siberian Rubythroat, Bluethroat, Lesser and Greater White-fronted Goose, Comb Duck, Tufted Duck,
Mallard, Spotted Crake, Water Rail, Painted Snipe, Oriental Darter, Lesser Adjutant, Sarus and Common Crane, Greater
Spotted Eagle, Pallid and Marsh Harrier, Red-headed Falcon, Brown Fish-owl, Collared Scops-owl and many more.
Chambal river is a tributary of the Yamuna river, which flows northward through Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.
Chambal is one of the best places to see the Critically Endangered Gavial or Gharial. Chambal is also home to the
Endangered Gangetic Dolphin, Vulnerable Indian Skimmer, Pallas’s Fish-eagle, and Smooth-coated Otter.
Grade: Easy (Main gate to the Temple in Keoladeo is a 5 km walk, however bicycles and cycle rickshaws can be hired
at extra cost).
Dates: 26th-30th January, 2013 (Few Seats Left)
Group Leaders: Mr. Asif Khan & Mr. Kuljeet Arora
Charges: Rs. 12,500/- for members and Rs. 13,100/- for others. Reporting: New Delhi railway station at 8.45 a.m. on
day one, drop-off at New Delhi Railway station at 06.30 p.m. on the last day. Return will be through Agra.
How to Reach: Mumbai-Delhi: Mumbai Rajdhani (12951) Dep. 16.40 hrs, arrives in Delhi next day at 08.30 hrs, Swaraj
Exp. (12471) Dep. 07.55 hrs, Arr. 04.30 hrs. Other trains like Dehradun Exp. (19019), LTTHW AC SUP (12171), Amritsar
Exp. (11057).
Participants can also fly to Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi which is situated about 20 km from the meeting
point (New Delhi railway station).
Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 22871202, 22821811 or e-mail [email protected]
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CHILIKA LAKEChilika, India’s largest brackish water lake is
home to a whole array of birds. It is also the
largest wintering ground for migratory birds
in the Indian subcontinent. Around 216 spe-
cies of birds have been listed here. Chilika is
also famous for the only known population in
India of the Vulnerable and rare Irrawaddy
Dolphin. Beside this, the Bottlenosed Dolphin
can also be seen. Birds like Fulvous and Lesser
Whistling Duck, Northern Pintail, Red-crested
Pochard, Greater Flamingo, Great White Peli-
can, Osprey, Marsh Harrier, White-bellied Sea-
eagle, and the Common, White-throated,
Lesser Pied and Black-headed Kingfisher can
be spotted. Chilika offers refuge to many bird
species like Near Threatened Ferruginous
Duck, Falcated Teal, Spot-billed Pelican, Ori-
ental Darter, Lesser Flamingo, Black-headed
Ibis, Black-bellied Tern, Pallid Harrier, Black-
tailed Godwit and Eurasian Curlew, Vulnerable
Dalmatian Pelican and Pallas’s Fish Eagle, and
Critically Endangered White-rumped Vulture
and Spoon-billed Sandpiper.
Grade: Easy
Date: Batch - I: 22nd-25th February, 2013
Date: Batch - II: 26th February - 1st March, 2013
Group leaders: Mr. Asif Khan
Camp Charges: Rs. 15,250/- for members and
Rs. 15,850/- for others (ex Bhubaneswar).
Accommodation: Twin sharing basis, in OTDC.
Reporting: Bhubaneswar Airport at 9.30 am,
on day one. (Participants can be picked up
from the Bhubaneswar railway station at 8.30
a.m.). Drop off at Bhubaneswar railway sta-
tion on last day at 12.30 p.m.
How to Reach: Bhubaneswar is well connected
by air, one can take the Jet Konnect flight on
day one (22nd Feb) which reaches
Bhubaneswar at 8.30 a.m. By rail: one can take
the LTT Puri SUP Exp. (22865) or Konark Exp.
(11019) which arrive in Bhubaneswar at 07.15
hrs and 04.25 hrs respectively. (Kindly note
Konark Exp. takes 37 hrs, thus plan your jour-
ney accordingly).
Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 22821811
or e-mail [email protected]
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KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK – a World Heritage Site and home of 65% of the world population of the One-horned
Rhinoceros. Herds of Barasingha, Hog Deer and Wild Buffalo are seen in the marshes. Rhinos browse unconcernedly as
visitors pass by and occasionally a herd of elephants or wild boar is also sighted. One of the best places in India to see
Pied Harrier and other raptors like Crested Serpent-eagle, Pallas’s Fish-eagle, and Grey-headed Fish-eagle which can
be seen circling overhead. The trek to Burapahar offers good birding opportunities, a chance to catch a glimpse of
the Hoolock Gibbon, and butterflies like Knight, Oak Blues, Fluffy Tit, Yellow Flat, Suffused Snow Flat, and many more.
Nameri National Park is a birder’s paradise and more than 300 species of birds have been identified here – four species
of Hornbills like Great, Wreathed, Oriental Pied, and Rufous-necked Hornbill. Other birds like Pale-chinned and Little
Pied Flycatcher, Green-billed Malkoha, Great Thick-knee, Blue-throated, Lineated and Blue-eared Barbet, Red-breasted
Parakeet, Orange-bellied and Gold-fronted Leafbird, Ibisbill, Long-tailed and Silver-breasted Broadbill, Small Niltava,
Black Baza and the elusive White-winged Duck are also seen.
Grade: Moderate (One medium grade trek to Burapahar, the trek is optional.)
Date: 17th-22nd March, 2013
Group leaders: Mr. Vandan Jhaveri & Mr. Asif Khan
Camp Charges: Rs. 23,500/- for members and Rs. 24,100/- for others (ex Guwahati).
Accommodation: Twin sharing basis.
Reporting: Members to meet on day one at Guwahati at 8.00 a.m. at Hotel Mayur in the lobby (Tel: 0361-2734855 to 61),
Paltan Bazar, opposite Guwahati railway station. Return on day five after breakfast to reach Guwahati at lunch time.
You are advised to arrive at Guwahati one day prior to the first day of the camp and leave Guwahati one day later.
Cost includes: All accommodation, all meals (B/L/D) from first day lunch to last day breakfast.
Registration*: Kindly contact us at 022-22821811/22871202 or email [email protected]
MARCH, 2013
KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK
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EAGLENEST WILDLIFE SANCTUARYA birdwatcher’s paradise, Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary is
situated in West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh.
Though small in area (218 sq. km) the sanctuary is home
to around 500 species of birds. It is also famous for the
recent discovery of Bugun Liocichla. Other birds like
Ward’s Trogon, Beautiful Nuthatch, Rufous-necked,
Oriental Pied, Wreathed and Great Hornbill, Green-tailed,
Mrs. Gould’s, Black-throated and Fire-tailed Sunbird, Red-
tailed Minla, Mountain Bulbul as well as Bhutan, Chestnut-
crowned and Spotted Laughingthrush, Beautiful and Long-
tailed Sibia, and many more.
Grade: Easy (Walking during the birding trail with a back-
up vehicle)
Date: 23rd-27th March, 2013 (Limited Registration)
Group leaders: Mr. Asif Khan & Mr. Nikhil Bhopale
Camp Charges: Rs. 19,500/- for members and Rs. 20,100/
- for others.
Accommodation: Twin sharing basis.
Reporting: Members to meet on day one at Guwahati at
6.00 a.m. at Hotel Mayur in the lobby (Tel: 0361-2734855
to 61), Paltan Bazar, opposite Guwahati railway station.
Return on day five late evening. You are advised to arrive
at Guwahati one day prior to the first day of the campand leave Guwahati one day later.Cost includes: All accommodation at Eaglenest, all meals
(B/L/D) from first day lunch to last day lunch.
Registration*: Kindly contact us at 022-22821811/22871202
or email [email protected]
MARCH, 2013
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WILDLIFE CAMP TO NORTH SIKKIMLocated in the Yumthang Valley, Shingba Rhododendron
Sanctuary is a striking place to view flora and fauna in
their full glory. Yumthang Valley is renowned for its alpine
meadows and breathtaking landscape with the
picturesque Yumthang river flowing through it. On the
banks of the river, one can see an abundance of
Rhododendron trees and shrubs. Apart from
Rhododendron, the sanctuary is rich in bird diversity,
such as Blood Pheasant, Common Hill Partridge, Ibisbill,
White-collared Blackbird, Green-backed Tit, Black-
chinned, Whiskered and Rufous-vented Yuhina, Silver-
eared Mesia, Red-billed Leiothrix, Blue-winged, Bar-
throated and Red-tailed Minla, Snow Pigeon and Hoary-
throated Barwing. The beautiful and highly endangered
Red Panda, Musk Deer, and Spotted Linsang have been
also reported from here.
Grade: Easy (Walking is required during the birding trails)
Date: 11th-15th April, 2013
Group leader: Mr. Asif Khan
Camp Charges: Rs. 17,800/- for members and Rs. 18,400/
- for others
Accommodation: Twin sharing basis.
Reporting: Pick up from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) railway
station at 8.00 a.m. and drop to NJP in the evening of
the last day. You are advised to book your tickets to
arrive in NJP one day prior and leave one day later.
How to get there: NJP is well connected by air; the
nearest airport, Bagdogra, is only 19 km from NJP railway
station. By rail: One can take direct trains to NJP like
Guwahati Exp. (15645 & 15647), and Karmabhumi Exp.
(15611), which run on selected days only, or reach Kolkata
and then board any one of many trains to NJP.
Cost includes: All accommodation, meals (B/L/D) from
first day dinner to last day breakfast, Transfers to and
from NJP, permits, and entry to park.
Cost excludes: Flight/rail ticket to NJP, all expenses of
personal nature like laundry, beverages and food not
mentioned in the itinerary, camera fees, anything extra
cost not specified in the above cost.
Registration*: Kindly contact us at 022-22821811/22871202
or email [email protected]
April, 2013
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BIRDWATCHING AT BENONG HILL, MUSSOORIEBenong Wildlife Sanctuary, a part of the famous Rajaji National Park, centres around Benong Hill, a pine-clad slope
surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of Himalaya. It has been developed as a birdwatching haven. This sanctuary
houses several species of birds such as White-capped Water Redstart, Red-billed and Yellow-billed Blue Magpie,
Himalayan Bulbul, Kaleej Pheasant, Himalayan Monal, Slaty-blue Flycatcher, Snowy-browed Flycatcher, Red-billed
Leiothrix, Mountain Hawk-Eagle, Crimson, Fire-tailed, Mrs. Gould’s, and Black-breasted Sunbird, Great Barbet, and
many more. The Sanctuary was once home to the Himalayan Quail, an extinct bird last sighted in 1876. Both herbivo-
rous and carnivorous mammals are found in abundance, including Himalayan Goat (Goral), Leopards, and Himalayan
Bear. The forest flora mainly comprises fir and pine trees. In addition, the area is rich in medicinal plants.
This trek is a delight for environment and bird lovers, and also for historians.
Grade: Moderate (Moderate uphill walks are required during the trails)
Date: 20th-24th April, 2013
Group leaders: Mr. Asif Khan & Mr. Vandan Jhaveri
Camp Charges: Rs. 12,500/- for members and Rs.13,100/- for others.
Accommodation: 4/3 sharing basis at See Green Lodges (www.seegreenlodges.com)
Reporting: New Delhi railway station at 8.45 a.m. on day one, drop-off at New Delhi railway station at 3.30 pm on the
last day. How to Reach: Mumbai-Delhi: Mumbai Rajdhani (12951) Dep. 16.40 hrs, Arr. Delhi next day at 08.30 hrs, Swaraj
Exp. (12471) Dep. 07.55 hrs, Arr. 04.30 hrs. Other trains like Dehradun Exp. (19019), LTTHW AC SUP (12171), Amritsar
Exp. (11057). Delhi is also well connected by air, Delhi airport is 20 km from New Delhi railway station.
Cost includes: All accommodation, meals (B/L/D) from first day dinner to last day breakfast, Transfers to and from New
Delhi, permits, and entry to park.
Cost excludes: Flight/rail ticket to New Delhi, all expenses of personal nature like laundry, beverages and lunch on
first and last day, camera fees, any cost not specified above. Registration*: Kindly contact us at 022-22821811/
22871202 or email [email protected]
April, 2013
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May, 2013
GIR NATIONAL PARK -THE LAST REFUGEGir National Park is one of the oldest National Parks of India
and is famed for being the last refuge of the Asiatic Lion.
The arid landscape of Gir has a lot to offer besides the
famous Asiatic Lion. Gir also supports a large population of
the leopards and is famed for having the largest concentration
of carnivores. Important prey species are Spotted Deer, Wild
Boar, Nilgai, and Sambar. Gir is also excellent for birds, many
species like Mottled Wood-owl, Indian Scops-owl, Indian Little
Nightjar, Crested Treeswift, Indian Peafowl, Asian Paradise
and Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher, Tawny-bellied and Yellow-eyed
Babbler, Indian Stone-curlew and many more can be seen
here. Other fauna like Four-horned Antelope, Chinkara,
Striped Hyena, Golden Jackal, Black-naped Hare, and Bengal
Monitor as well as Marsh Crocodile can be seen.
Dates:Batch I: 11th-14th May, 2013
Batch II: 15th-18th May, 2013
Group leader: Mr. Vandan Jhaveri
Camp Charges: Rs. 15,000/- for members and Rs. 15,600/- for
others (ex Rajkot).
Accommodation: Twin sharing basis.Reporting: Outside Rajkot railway station at 8.00 hrs. Drop
at Rajkot on last day at 14.30 hrs.
How to get there: Train - Sau Janta Exp. (19017) leaves
from Bandra Terminus at 17.35 hrs and reaches Rajkot at
07.30 hrs. Sau Janta Exp. (19018) can be booked for return,
leaving Rajkot at 15.20 hrs.
Flight - Direct flights from Mumbai to Rajkot are available.
Cost includes: Accommodation, food (day one lunch to
last day breakfast) transfers to/from Rajkot, Safari charges
and entry to the Park.
Cost excludes: Flight/rail ticket to Rajkot, all expenses of
personal nature like laundry, beverages and food not
mentioned in the itinerary, camera fees, anything not
specified in the above cost.
Registration*: Kindly contact us at 022-22821811/22871202
or email [email protected]
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TADOBA NATIONAL PARKTadoba National Park is Maharashtra’s oldest
National Park. Situated in Chandrapur district,
the National Park covers 623 sq. km of two
forested areas of the Tadoba and Andhari forest
range. Along with Tiger, Tadoba is home to
Leopard, Sloth Bear, Indian Gaur, Wild Dog, Sambar,
Spotted and Barking Deer, Blue Bull and Four-
horned Antelope. Tadoba Lake harbours Marsh
Crocodile. Birds like Indian Pitta, White-eyed
Buzzard, Pied Cuckoo, Stork-billed Kingfisher,
Painted Sandgrouse, Jungle Bush-quail, Grey
Junglefowl, and many more can be seen.
Dates:
Batch I: 31st May-3rd June, 2013
Batch II: 5th-8th June, 2013
Group leader: Mr. Vandan Jhaveri
Camp Charges: Rs. 15,000/- for members and
Rs. 15,600/- for others (ex Nagpur).
Accommodation: Triple sharing basis, in Tiger
Trail Jungle Lodge (www.tigertrails.in)
Reporting: At 09.00 a.m. outside Nagpur railway
station, near Comesum Food Court. Drop off on
last day at 06.00 p.m. at Nagpur railway station
How to get there: Mumbai-Nagpur: Sewagram
Exp. (12139) leaves CSTM at
1500 hrs. Nagpur-Mumbai: Sewagram Exp. (12140)
leaves Nagpur at 2100 hrs.
Cost includes: Accommodation, food (first day
lunch to last day lunch), Transfers to/from
Nagpur, Safari charges and entry to the Park.
Registration*: Kindly contact us at 022-22821811/
22871202 or e-mail
May, 2013
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July, 2013
LADAKH – Land SafariLadakh is bounded by two of the world’s mightiest mountain ranges, the Great Himalaya and the Karakoram. Truly a
geological wonder where you can see the effects of the buckling and folding of the earth’s crust as the Indian
subcontinent pushed with irresistible force against the immovable mass of Asia which created these great mountains.
The amazing landscape is nature’s own sculpture by wind and water over millennia. Embark on this land safari to
explore Ladakh’s wilderness, to see the Black-necked Crane, Golden Eagle, Bearded Vulture, Fire-fronted Serin,
Winter Wren, White-winged Redstart, Horned and Hume’s Short-toed Lark, Wallcreeper, Alpine and Robin Accentor,
Brandt’s Mountain-finch, Common Rosefinch, Himalayan Griffon, Common Merganser, Bar-headed Goose, Chukar par-
tridge, and mammals like Kiang (Tibetan Wild Ass), Himalayan Blue Sheep, Mountain Stoat, Royle’s Pika, Himalayan and
Long-tailed Marmot. Agama lizards, Vulnerable Apollo butterflies and wildflowers are also deen.
Date: 13th-21th July, 2013
Group leader: Mr. Vandan Jhaveri
Camp Charges: Kindly contact us after 15th January, 2013 for the cost details.
Accommodation: Twin Sharing ‘A’ class hotels in Leh; Twin Sharing Tents at Hemis National Park
(with Trench Toilet tents)
Twin Sharing Tents at Tsomoriri
Reporting: Leh Airport.
Cost includes: All accommodation, all meals, from first day lunch to last day breakfast, transport in and around Leh in
Scorpio/Innova or similar (four persons per jeep), Inner line permits for prohibited areas.
Cost excludes:
Personal expenses like mineral water, cold drinks, laundry, and medical expenses.
Optional activity charges like river rafting.
Cost of extended stays or change in itinerary on account of factors beyond our
control (for instance bad weather, civil disturbances, and landslides). Travel and
flight insurance, emergency medical charges, camera fees in monastery / wildlife sanctuaries.
Registration*: Kindly contact us at 022-22821811/22871202 or email [email protected]
Kindly book your flight tickets early to avail good rates.
A medical certificate from a qualified physician stating that you are fit to travel at 18,000+ feet is compulsory.
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INTERNATIONAL CAMPSMarch 2013
African Safari – TanzaniaCome and explore the wildlife of Northern Tanzania, also known as “the prime game viewing country”. Witness the
spectacle of African wildlife in Tanzania. Masai Giraffe, Thomson’s Gazelle, Cheetah, Striped and Spotted Hyena, and
many more wild animals roam the Savannah. Tanzania provides the best opportunity to see distinctive African animals
like African Lion, Cheetah, Eland and Kudu, and birds such as Secretary Bird, African Fish-eagle, Lilac-breasted Roller,
Superb Starling, Vulturine and Crested Guineafowl, Southern Ground Hornbill, Kori Bustard, and Red-billed Hornbill.
Other attractions are Nile Crocodile and the largest land animal, the African Elephant.
Serengeti, Tanzania’s largest and most famous National Park, also known as “the Mecca of wildlife lovers”, is truly a
wildlife paradise. Experience the thrill of exploring the ‘endless’ plains of Serengeti and witness extensive herds of
wildebeests and zebra. The largest bird, Common Ostrich can also be seen here.
Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places to see the Critically Endangered Black Rhinoceros, Serval, Wildebeest,
African Elephant, Cape Buffalo, and African Lion at close range.
Lake Manyara National Park, an IBA (Important Bird Area) and potential Ramsar site, is an alkaline lake which offers a
view of thousands of pink-hued flamingos; one can also see Saddle-billed Stork, Blue-capped Cordon Bleu, Crested
Guineafowl, Verreaux’s Eagle Owl, and Pangani Longclaw. Blue Monkey and Kirk’s Dik-dik are often seen here.
Dates: 1st-9th March, 2013 (ex Mumbai) A single sear
Reporting: 1st March 2013 at 23.30 hrs at Mumbai International Airport.
Camp Fee: Rs. 1, 58,700/- for members and Rs.1, 59,300/- for others (single seat available for female participant)Group Leader: Mr. Vandan Jhaveri
Payment schedule: Registration started
1st Installment (non-refundable) Immediate Rs. 45,000/-
2nd Installment Immediate Rs. 60,000/-
3th Installment 15th January 2013 Rs. 30,000/-
Final Installment 1st February 2013 Rs. 23,700/-
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Price does not include:Drinks such as soda, bise specified in “Camp fee includes”
Note: The cost has been calculated @ 1 USD = 55 INR, with
minimum 15 participants traveling together.
Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 22871202, 22821811 or e-
mail [email protected] for more details.
Camp fee includes:
Economy Class Airfare on Kenya Airlines
Normal Visa and processing charges
Full board accommodation
All game park entrance fees
Travel insurance upto 70 years
1.5 Litres of mineral water per person per day
Professional driver guide
Game drives as per itinerary
BNHS expertise
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Wild Borneo, MalaysiaBorneo Island is also known as the Land of the
Hornbills; the Borneo rainforest is the oldest in
the world and is the only place in the world to
see the Endangered Borneo Orangutan. Malaysia
is a “Megadiversity Country”, harbouring an
estimated 20% of the world’s animal species.
Malaysia is also well known for its endemism.
During our camp we will visit Bako National Park,
Gunung Gading National Park, and Mulu National
Park.
Bako National Park:One of the oldest in Malaysia, this national park
is home to the Endangered Proboscis Monkey,
Near Threatened Silvered Leaf-Monkey and the
Crab-eating Macaque. it is also home to several
species of carnivorous Pitcher Plants.
Gunung Gading National Park:The Gunung Gading National Park features a
complex of mountains rising into several peaks,
with numerous waterfalls tumbling down in series
in the upper reaches of Lundu river, creating
an idyllic jungle setting in the cool shade of the
rainforest. This national park is famous for the
world’s largest single flower, Rafflesia, a parasitic
plant only found in Southeast Asia.
Mulu National Park:
Mulu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage
Site that encompasses cave formations and is
flanked by limestone outcrops with virgin
tropical forest on the lower slopes giving way
to montane vegetation in the upper region. In
the mountainous equatorial rainforest of Borneo,
eight species of Hornbill are found, including
Near Threatened Rhinoceros Hornbill as well as
White-crowned and Helmeted Hornbill. The Deer
Caves are home to an enormous colony of
Wrinkle-lipped Bat, which almost every evening
exit the cave in search of food in spectacular
waves.
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Dates: 28th May-5th June, 2013 (ex Mumbai)
Reporting: 28th May, 2013 at Mumbai International Airport.
Camp Fee: Rs. 1, 30,000/- for members, and Rs. 1, 30,600/- for others (including seven flight and Visa charges)
Group Leader: Mr. Asif Khan
Payment schedule:
1st Installment (non-refundable) Immediate Rs. 25,000/-
2nd Installment Date- 2nd January 2013 Rs. 30,000/-
3rd Installment Date- 2nd February 2013 Rs. 30,000/-
4th Installment Date- 2nd March 2013 Rs. 30,000/-
Final Installment Date- 2nd April 2013 Rs. 15,000/-
Camp fee includes:Seven flights airfare (Economy Class) on Malaysian Airlines
Normal Visa and processing charges
Full board accommodation
All game park entrance fees
BNHS expertise
Price does not include:Drinks such as soda, beer, and snacks not on the group menu
Any sightseeing not mentioned in Itinerary
Expenses of a personal nature, laundry, telephone calls
Tips and gratuities
Services other than those specified in “Camp fee includes”
Note: The cost has been calculated @ 1 RM (Malaysian Ringgits) = 18 INR, with minimum 16 participants traveling
together.
Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 22871202, 22821811 or e-mail: [email protected] for more details
* Note: -If you are registering for any of the programmes, it is assumed that you have read and agreed to all the
Rules and Guidelines.
Guidelines and Rules for the BNHS programmes are available on the website: www.bnhs.org.
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Editor: Dr.Asad Rahmani, Isaac Kehimkar, Consultant Editor: Gayatri UrgaLayout and Designed by: Gopi NaiduProgrammes Team: Mr.Isaac Kehimkar, Asif N Khan and Vandan JhaveriPhoto credits: Gangadharan Menon, Ramana Athreya, Isaac Kehimkar, Asif N Khan, Vandan Jhaveri, Krunal Gada, Sanjeev Kamdar, Sudhir Sapre, Sanjay Karkare,Sujit Narawade
DAY PROGRAMMES
Programmes at CEC - Mumbai10% discount on all the programmes for Members
13th January 2013: Brunch with Birds - with Sunjoy Monga
Birdwatching is an age-old outdoor hobby which is your lifetime ticket to the theatre of nature. The numbers of enthusiastic birders has been increasing by leaps and bounds; BNHS has played a crucial role in bringing birds into the limelight and in making birdwatching a popular hobby among nature lovers. Winter is the best time to see birds, as many migrant birds visit Mumbai. Welcome these migratory birds and learn more about our local birds with us in Brunch with Birds along with the launch of Kidzbirds in Urban India: A bird book for children by Mr. Sunjoy Monga.
This is the eighth successful year of Brunch with Birds. The programme is a combination of outdoor and indoor sessions which will be highly interactive. You will get acquainted with high fliers of the natural world through sessions on Birdwatching, Bird Architecture, Bird Migration, Bird Calls, Bird Quiz, and Threatened Birds. For children we have arranged fun-filled activities such as treasure hunt, nest building, quiz, bird calls and face-painting. A sumptuous brunch will be served to complete the event. An informative programme kit comprising educational material and souvenirs will be provided to participants.
Note: The United Nations Convention for Biological Diversity has developed 20 global biodiversity targets for year 2020 also known as Aichi Targets. We are happy to inform you that by participating in the above event, you will help BNHS in contributing to three of these targets: Targets 1 (Awareness of Biodiversity), 11 (Protected Areas) and 19 (Biodiversity Knowledge).
Venue: BNHS Nature Reserve, Conservation Education Centre. Time: 7.30 a.m. - 12.30 p.m., How to reach: Take a 343 bus headed to Film City (not Santosh Nagar) from Goregaon (E) BEST depot. Alight at the last stop, near Reliance Media Works, and walk straight towards Elephant Gate. Cross the barrier at Elephant Gate and walk straight towards the BNHS signboard. At the signboard, take a right to find CEC. If you are coming by private transport use the Western Express Highway and then take the Film City road which ends at the BNHS premises. Programme Fee: Rs. 600/- Adult and Rs. 550/- Child (up to 12 yrs). Register Before: 7th January, 2013. For Registration Contact: Mr. Kaustubh Bhagat, Education Officer at 9594929107 / 9594953425 (between 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m., Mon-Fri). Or Email: [email protected]
20th January, 2013: Bird watching @ Nilje Lake, Dombivali
Nilje is a small village about 8 km from Dombivali on Dombivali – SheelPhata – Mumbai Highway. The small village pond hosts winter migrants. Several waterbirds like Teals, Brahminy Duck, Pheasant-tailed Jacanas, Moorhens can be sighted at the pond. The surrounding area is a mixture of cultivated land or dry fallow land and scrub country.
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Note: The United Nations Convention for Biological Diversity has developed 20 global biodiversity targets for year 2020 also known as Aichi Targets. We are happy to inform you that by participating in the above event, you will help BNHS in contributing to five of these targets: Targets 1 (Awareness of Biodiversity), 4 (Use of Natural Resources), 9 (Invasive Alien Species), 11 (Protected Areas) and 19 (Biodiversity Knowledge)
Venue: Nilje Lake, Dombivali Time: 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Programme Fee: Rs. 50/- Child (below 12 years), Rs.100/- Adult. Meeting Point: Nilje Village. How to reach: There is regular bus service from Dombivali (East) Railway Station to Nilje. Alternatively one can take a share a auto to Nilje. Register Before: 17th January 2013. For Registration Contact: Ms Amandeep Kaur, Education Officer at 9594929107 / 9594953425 (between 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m., Mon-Fri) Or Email: [email protected]
26th January 2013: Flamingo Watch @ Sewri
Flamingos have migrated from Gujarat to different parts of Mumbai, Thane and Navi Mumbai, however Sewri still holds the largest record for big flocks on the mudflats. Join us to learn about these long-legged beauties and there wetland habitats. Experience this unique opportunity to view them and learn about these magnificent and mysterious visitors. Sewri Mudflats also hosts many birds such as Common Greenshank and Redshank, Common and Green Sandpiper, Eurasian Curlew and many more. So come join us and learn about these wonderful beauties. Note: The United Nations Convention for Biological Diversity has developed 20 global biodiversity targets for year 2020 also known as Aichi Targets. We are happy to inform you that by participating in the above event, you will help BNHS in contributing to two of these targets: Targets 1 (Awareness of Biodiversity), and 19 (Biodiversity Knowledge)
Venue: Sewri. Time: 7.30 a.m. to 9.30 a.m. Programme Fee: Rs. 150/- per head. Meeting Point: Sewri (East) station near railway crossing. How to reach: Sewri railway station is on the Harbour line accessible from CST, Andheri, and Navi Mumbai. By road, reach Sewri (East) from Parel or Dadar up to Sewri and cross over at the railway level crossing or from the bridge at Wadala or Reay Road to the Mumbai Port Trust Road to reach Sewri Jetty. Register before: 24th January 2013. For Registration Contact: Ms Priti Choghale, Senior Education Officer for details on 9594953425, 9594929107 or Email: [email protected]
26th January 2013: No TV Day – Family’s Day Out – Trek to Highest Point of BNHS Nature Reserve
The CEC is surrounded by a sprawling, undulating forest. Summer, monsoon, and winter bring with them changes that are unique to these seasons. Its proximity to the Sanjay Gandhi National Park is an added bonus, for much of the richness of plant and animal life flows into the Centre’s environs. Occasionally, a leopard roams the terrain and Sambar deer forage around in the late evenings, frequenting the water hole behind the building. Troops of Bonnet Macaques and Hanuman Langurs assemble on the trees towering around the Centre. Sálim Ali point is the pinnacle of the BNHS reserve, offering a panoramic view of the reserve and the adjoining National Park. The point gives the most scenic view of Vihar Lake. During the current season,
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the forest turns into a birdwatcher’s paradise, with a myriad songsters that come visiting. You can spend an entire day at the BNHS reserve exploring the forest and enjoying nature. Watch the birds and insects as they flit through flowering trees… Look out for the telltale signs of large mammals… Even spot some!!! Come join us for the trek to the highest point of our Reserve - Sálim Ali Point.
Note: The United Nations Convention for Biological Diversity has developed 20 global biodiversity targets for year 2020 also known as Aichi Targets. We are happy to inform you that by participating in the above event, you will help BNHS in contributing to four of these targets: Targets 1 (Awareness of Biodiversity), 9 (Invasive Alien Species), 11 (Protected Areas) and 19 (Biodiversity Knowledge)
Venue: BNHS Nature Reserve, Conservation Education Centre. Time: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 pm. Programme Fee: Rs. 500/- per adult, Rs.400/- per child (up to 10 years). Register Before: 24th January, 2013. How to reach: Take a 343 bus headed to Film City (not Santosh Nagar) from Goregaon (E) BEST depot. Alight at the last stop, near Reliance Media Works, and walk straight towards Elephant Gate. Cross the barrier at Elephant Gate and walk straight towards the BNHS signboard. At the signboard, take a right to find CEC. If you are coming by private transport use the Western Express Highway and then take the Film City road which ends at the BNHS premises. For Registration Contact: Ms Isha Sawant, Education Officer at 9594929107 / 9594953425 (between 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m., Mon-Fri). Or Email: [email protected]
2nd February 2013: World Wetland Day Poster Competition Every year, Sewri Mudflats in Mumbai are visited by thousands of pink migratory birds - Flamingos. They arrive in the city late November, remain with us till May and depart just before monsoon. This World Wetlands Day which is celebrated on 2nd February, we celebrate Flamingos and their Wetlands. This date marks the signing of the 'Convention on Wetlands' in 1971 at Ramsar, Iran. Sewri, though not a Ramsar site, has been declared as an Important Bird Area. Wetlands are essential ecological features in any landscape as they are home to hundreds of species of birds along with fishes, mammals and insects. Mumbai is slowly losing its wetlands which are home to large mangrove stretches - the storm dividers for the Mumbai coast. It is time we create awareness about wetlands and their inhabitants on this eco-day. Therefore the BNHS’s Conservation Education Centre, in collaboration with Rotary Club Bombay is organizing a Poster Competition for schools. This is a call to all teachers, parents and students who believe in this cause and would like to help us in developing an Educational and Innovative Exhibition on Wetlands. Theme: Save Wetlands, Save Flamingos Date: 2nd February 2012 Venue: Conservation Education Centre, Goregaon. Time: 9.00 a.m. - 4.30 p.m. Eligibility Criteria: Students of Standards 5 to 9 (Two groups; Lesser Flamingo: V-VII Std, Greater Flamingo: VIII-X Std) Poster Specification: A poster is a visual medium that communicates the theme with images and interesting facts. The image and text ratio should be 75:25. The medium is water colour and the language is English. The poster size is the usual chart paper ( 21.75" x 27.75") Entry: Free. Poster materials will be provided to the students such as chart paper, water colours, brushes,
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however students are encouraged to bring along other accessories as per their choice. Snacks and lunch will be provided by us. Prizes: Attractive BNHS publications and products will be given away as prizes. Last date for registration : 28th January, 2013 How to Apply: Schools need to nominate students with artistic flair. Interested students need to fill up the application form which can be downloaded from www.bnhs.org or request via email to [email protected]. For details contact Ms Amandeep Kaur, Education Officer on 9594953425 / 9594929107 Note: The United Nations Convention for Biological Diversity has developed 20 global biodiversity targets for year 2020 also known as Aichi Targets. We are happy to inform you that by participating in the above event, you will help BNHS in contributing to five of these targets: Targets 1 (Awareness of Biodiversity), 4 (Use of Natural Resources), 9 (Invasive Alien Species), 11 (Protected Areas) and 19 (Biodiversity Knowledge)
3rd February 2013: Flamingo Visit: World Wetland Day
Every year 2nd February is celebrated as World Wetland Day, Which we are celebrating by holding a Flamingo Watch. Flamingos have migrated from Gujarat to different parts of Mumbai, Thane, and Navi Mumbai; however Sewri still holds the largest record for big flocks on the mudflats. Join us to learn about these long-legged beauties and their wetland habitat. Experience this unique opportunity to view and learn about these magnificent and mysterious visitors. So come join us to welcome these pink beauties.
Note: The United Nations Convention for Biological Diversity has developed 20 global biodiversity targets for year 2020 also known as Aichi Targets. We are happy to inform you that by participating in the above event, you will help BNHS in contributing to two of these targe: Targets 1 (Awareness of Biodiversity), and 19 (Biodiversity Knowledge)
Venue: Sewri. Time: 7.30 a.m. to 9.30 a.m. Programme Fee: Rs. 150/- per head. Meeting Point: Sewri (East) station near railway crossing. How to reach: Sewri railway station is on the harbour line accessible from CST, Andheri, and Navi Mumbai. By road, reach Sewri (East) from Parel or Dadar up to Sewri and cross over at the railway level crossing or from the bridge at Wadala or Reay Road to the Mumbai Port Trust Road to reach Sewri Jetty. Register before: 28th January 2013. For Registration Contact: Ms Amandeep Kaur, Education Officer for details on 9594953425, 9594929107 or Email: [email protected]
10th February 2013: Flamingo Visit
Flamingos have migrated from Gujarat to different parts of Mumbai, Thane and Navi Mumbai, however Sewri still holds the largest record for big flocks on the mudflats. Join us to learn about these long-legged beauties and their wetland habitats. Experience this unique opportunity to view them and learn about these magnificent and mysterious visitors. Sewri Mudflats also host many birds such as Common Greenshank and Redshank, Common and Green Sandpiper, Eurasian Curlew and many more. So come join us and learn about these unique birds.
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Note: The United Nations Convention for Biological Diversity has developed 20 global biodiversity targets for year 2020 also known as Aichi Targets. We are happy to inform you that by participating in the above event, you will help BNHS in contributing to two of thes targets: Targets 1 (Awareness of Biodiversity), and 19 (Biodiversity Knowledge)
Venue: Sewri. Time: 7.30 a.m. to 9.30 a.m. Programme Fee: Rs. 150/- per head. Meeting Point: Sewri (East) station near railway crossing. How to reach: Sewri railway station is on the Harbour line accessible from CST, Andheri, and Navi Mumbai. By road, reach Sewri (East) from Parel or Dadar up to Sewri and cross over at the railway level crossing or from the bridge at Wadala or Reay Road to the Mumbai Port Trust Road to reach Sewri Jetty. Register before: 6th February, 2013. For Registration Contact: Ms Amandeep Kaur, Education Officer for details on 9594953425, 9594929107 Or Email: [email protected]
17th February 2013: Navi Mumbai Chapter - Wader Watch @ Talawe
The number of enthusiastic birders has been increasing by leaps and bounds. Talawe, located on Palm Beach Road near NRI Complex is one of the best places to see waders, more commonly known as shorebirds. Talawe has a good trail along the salt pans and mangrove forest. Call us and register for this event as the earliest.
Note: The United Nations Convention for Biological Diversity has developed 20 global biodiversity targets for year 2020 also known as Aichi Targets. We are happy to inform you that by participating in the above event, you will help BNHS in contributing to three of these targets: Targets 1 (Awareness of Biodiversity), 9 (Invasive Alien Species), and 19 (Biodiversity Knowledge)
Venue: Talawe, Navi Mumbai. Time: 7.30 a.m. - 10.30 a.m. Meeting Point: NRI Complex, Palm Beach Road. How to reach: Take a Harbour line train, get down at Nerul station and take an auto up to NRI complex. Programme Fee: Rs. 100/- per head for adults and Rs. 50/- for children below 10 years. Register Before: 13th February, 2013, For Registration Contact: Ms Isha Sawant, Education Officer at 9594953425 / 9594929107 (between 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m., Monday to Friday). Or Email: [email protected].
Wild Winter Workshops @ CEC
As the winter sets in at the BNHS Nature Reserve, the forest shows signs of slowing down. The sun is less harsh, the air is cooler, and the days are pleasant throughout. The trees close down their ‘kitchens’ and prepare for a six month ‘fast’. The leaves bid farewell and all tree energy is directed to flower production. The bugs including butterflies show adaptive changes to the changing weather. The brown forms and dark forms of insects are seen, which remain protected under the disguise of camouflage. The spiders are busy laying eggs and seeking refuge in tree bark, among leaves and leaf litter. The reptiles or herps too ‘wear’ their adaptive coloration and remain hidden. The birds are, however, having a blast. They are meeting up with their migratory
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cousins, who visit them during winters. It is time for love and family. The male birds adorn themselves with colourful breeding plumage and the female birds have a tough time choosing the right mate. There is so much drama awaiting this winter, so we at CEC-Mumbai decided to give you a taste of it. Join our Wild Winter Workshops and revolutionize the way Mumbaikars enjoy their winters. These day long workshops will get you close up with the natural world; provide you with techniques and tools of studying them. You will get an opportunity to meet up with experts and understand how their passion has been keeping them on a high for so long. Pick up your own field diary, make notes, read up about nature and present your findings. At the end develop your own study plan and form your study group….more importantly make new ‘wild’ friends. So hurry up and register for these workshops NOW. Venue: BNHS Nature Reserve, Conservation Education Centre Time: 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 a.m. Fees: Rs. 1000/- per theme (cost includes study material, food, and workshop charges) How to reach: Take a 343 bus headed to Film City (not Santosh Nagar) from Goregaon (E) BEST depot. Alight at the last stop, near Reliance Media Works, and walk straight towards Elephant Gate. Cross the barrier at Elephant Gate and walk straight towards the BNHS signboard. At the signboard, take a right to find CEC. If you are coming by private transport use the Western Express Highway and then take the Film City road which ends at the BNHS premises.
Workshop Themes
Butterflies for Beginners: 6th January, 2013 Butterflies, the stars of the insect world are truly elegant symbols of good fortune. But these beauties change to drab colours post monsoon. Learn how the dark and brown forms help these butterflies camouflage themselves. Understand how these bejeweled beauties slow down their metabolism to adapt to the changing weather. You may encounter a hibernating pupa and sometimes a parasitized pupa. While most of the bigger butterflies go out of action, tiny Blues and winter special Pansies rule the roost. Unusually the Whites and Yellows breed in these low temperatures, so if lucky, you may find their caterpillars. Enter their world to know how they fool birds and other predators. Know more about their classification, lifecycle, food plants, habits, habitats, identification and documentation. Get tips on setting up your own butterfly garden and learn to make a butterfly bait to attract these beauties to your home.
Bugs for Beginners: 20th January, 2013
Have you ever thought to touch an insector have you been fascinated by this tiny crawler? If yes then here is the chance. Come join the Bugs for Beginners Workshop at the BNHS Nature Reserve (BNR) and explore the winter life of bugs. A walk during a winter morning will enable you to observe bugs in their natural habitats and will give you an opportunity to handle live bugs.
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Understand how bugs, beetles, moths, and other insects slow down their metabolic activity after the hustle and bustle of monsoon. Our ‘Bug Lady’ will reveal the techniques of spotting, observing and identifying these elusive wonders without harming them. We may dig up some hibernating insects or stumble upon ‘frozen eggs’. While most of the colourful insects have left the scene the dragonflies, wasps, grasshoppers, mantids, and ants are still playing in the ground. The highlight of the season is the Fungus beetle that has attacked a few trees on BNR. Learn how these smarties fool birds and other predators and how they provide us with yummy food. The workshop will give you the opportunity to understand more about the Bug World! So come, touch, feel, and get close to them.
Birds for Beginners: 27th January 2013
Winter is a great season to look for birds, especially around Mumbai. Know the local and migrant feathered beauties through a bird walk on a nippy winter morning. Try looking out for beautifully camouflaged barbets and tailorbirds. Understand the trends in ‘winter fashion’ among birds. Get an insight into migration of these wintering beauties. Learn how the birds help the trees with pollination and seed dispersal with our activity “We pollinate”. Create “Bird Homes” and “Bird Feeders” to attract birds to your house. Get more insights into interesting facets of these feathered beauties, like feeding habits and habitat preferences, through exciting activities and games. If this interests you come join us as we explore these beauties. Come open the doors of your mind and your house to the beautiful world of backyard birding this winter.
Herps for Beginners: 10th February, 2013
Reptiles and amphibians are unique in that they repel some people and fascinate others. Ever wondered where the frogs and snakes hide during the winter? If you find croaking frogs or slithering snakes interesting, then this is for you. Join us for a Herp “hunt” to observe the amphibians and reptiles as they go for their “winter sleep.” Learn the basics of identifying them, their life cycle, survival strategies, and conservation issues. Come join us to know more about the ancestors and descendents of the extinct dinosaurs.
Trees for Beginners: 24th February, 2013
How many brand logos can we identify? Quite a few, right? Then how about recognizing the trees that we pass by every day? Can we name them?? Maybe a few, or maybe not. If you wish to learn more about them then come join us for the workshop on Trees for Beginners. Get firsthand experience of identifying trees in their natural habitat during a tree walk. Understand why they shed their leaves in winter. Check “flower power” as trees work overtime to attract insects for pollination. Learn how trees utilize the services of birds for pollination and seed dispersal. Figure out the age of grand old trees with the help of their annual rings. Know how the native and alien species around you adapt in winter.
Note: The United Nations Convention for Biological Diversity has developed 20 global biodiversity targets for year 2020, also known as Aichi Targets. We are happy to inform you that by participating in the above event, you will help BNHS in contributing to ten of these
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targets: Targets 1 (Awareness of Biodiversity), 2 (Integration of Biodiversity Value), 4 (Use of Natural Resources), 5 (Rate of loss of all natural habitats is reduced) 7 (Conservation of Biodiversity) 9 (Invasive Alien Species), 11 (Protected Areas) 12 (Conservation of Threatened Species) 14 (Ecosystems are restored and safeguarded) and 19 (Biodiversity Knowledge)
For Registration: Download the registration form from our website www.bnhs.org or write to us at [email protected]. Send the duly filled form along with the fees to CEC, Goregaon or Hornbill House.
For queries contact: Education Officers at 9594929107 / 9594953425 or write to us at [email protected]
Online Natural History Hobby Courses @ CEC
In today’s fast-paced lifestyles, urbanites are unable to pursue their hobbies or continue learning for intellectual stimulation. If nature study is your hobby and a medium of de-stressing your life, BNHS has created a unique learning opportunity through its online courses in natural history. For the past two years, CEC has been conducting year-long courses in biodiversity conservation and entomology. These courses have been popular among professionals and students from different streaMs Having a science background is not essential but a keen interest in nature or environment is a must. Other requirements include proficiency in computer operation and internet browsing, willingness to dedicate a minimum of two hours every day for the course work.
Our course modules are hybrid, with online and face-to-face activities interwoven through the course work. The asynchronous activities include online learning through a range of weekly assignments. The course software is equivalent to Facebook/Blackboard. There are 12 chapters which are sent on a monthly basis. There are weekly online assignments, monthly one-day field day trips, monthly project work, monthly online expert chats and bi-monthly field camps. All activities have optional facility. A course calendar is given at the beginning of the course so that the students can plan their activities. On successful completion, students receive a certificate with appropriate grades. Course details are given below:
1. Leadership Course in Biodiversity Conservation: A foundation course for developing better understanding about biodiversity and the current scenario of conservation. A good course for anyone who wishes to learn everything about the natural world and environment in a short time, also for those who are planning to have a change in career from the corporate world to the natural world.
Syllabus covers: Introduction to Biodiversity, Ecology, Floral Diversity, Insect Diversity, Marine Diversity, Diversity of Herpetofauna, Mammalian Diversity, Bird Diversity, Issues and Environmental Concerns, Environmental Impact Assessment, Environmental Law, and Sustainable Development
2. Basic Course on Insects (Entomology): An intensive course for those who wish to develop expertise in insect studies and take on entomological research in future. It prepares the student to identify insects upto order level and understand their role in
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nature. A good course for postgraduate students who wish to pursue wildlife research as a career option.
Syllabus covers: Introduction to Insects, Butterflies and Moths, Grasshoppers and Crickets, Cockroaches and Praying Mantids, Stick Insects and Leaf Insects, Wasps, Bees, Ants, Bugs, Beetles, True Flies, Dragonflies and Damselflies, Termites and Miscellaneous Insect Groups
Course Duration: January 2013 – December 2013
Course Fees for Leadership Course in Biodiversity Conservation: Rs. 8990/- (includes overnight inaugural and wrap up camps at CEC-Mumbai, local field trips and visit to collection department). Discount for BNHS members/Undergraduates/Sr. Citizens: Rs. 8090/-.
Course Fees for Basic Course on Insects: Rs. 6990/- (includes overnight inaugural and wrap up camps at CEC-Mumbai, local field trips and visit to the BNHS collection department). Discount for BNHS members/Undergraduates/Sr. Citizens: Rs. 6290/-.
Minimum Group size: 15 students Course Co-ordinator: Dr. V. Shubhalaxmi, Dy. Director Course Executive: Priti Choghale, Senior Education Officer For Registration Contact Ms Priti Choghale, Senior Education Officer on 9594929107/ 9223513425
Workshops on Communicating Science Ever wondered where to start your research? Often lamented on your inability to write a proposal? Ever wondered how to go forward with a research project? Are you stuck with preparing a report after the completion of your project? In the end are you at a loss while communicating your findings? Wonder which is the effective medium, research paper, poster or presentation? Do you still rue the lost opportunity at a conference? Most often the answer to the above questions is yes… There seem to be huge lacunae among the skills of research students on these points. In an attempt to provide a helping hand, the Conservation Education Centre of BNHS is conducting a Workshop on Communicating Science.
The workshop is not a run-of-the-mill workshop with plenary sessions, but will also involve hands-on and interactive sessions. The workshop has two sessions, viz. a. Research Papers, Posters, and Presentations b. Proposal and Report Writing, spread over two days. You can choose your sessions. Understand the difference between papers, posters and presentations. Review research papers with your group. Learn about the art of referencing and cross referencing. During the second session gain an insight into effective designing of a proposal. Learn the nuances of buffering the
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proposal while preparing the budget. Brainstorm about the various aspects of proposal writing. Get up close with the art of crisp report writing. Discuss the pitfalls and strengths of reports. Join us if this interests you and “get bitten by the bug” of Scientific Communication.
Venue: Bombay Natural History Society’s Conservation Education Centre, Mumbai
Dates:
19th February 2012: Session on Research Poster, Paper, and Presentation.
20th February 2012: Session on Research Proposals and Reports
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (both days)
Fees: Rs. 1000/- per head per day. (Fees include workshop fee, study material, and refreshments)
Eligibility: 18 years and above
Resource Person: Dr. V. Shubhalaxmi, Deputy Director
For registration: Contact Mr. Kaustubh Bhagat, Education Officer, at 9594929107/ 9594953425 or write to him at [email protected]
Note: The United Nations Convention for Biological Diversity has developed 20 global biodiversity targets for year 2020 also known as Aichi Targets. We are happy to inform you that by participating in the above event, you will help BNHS in contributing to two of these targets: Targets 1 (Awareness of Biodiversity) and 19 (Biodiversity Knowledge).
Volunteering Opportunities @ CEC “Volunteers are the only human beings on the face of the earth who reflect this nation's
compassion, unselfish caring, patience, and just plain love for one another” - Erma Bombeck
Bombay Natural History Society is an NGO working in the field of wildlife conservation since 1883. ‘Conservation through Nature Education’ has always been its primary concern. Its Conservation Education Centre (CEC) situated in Goregaon reflects the same concern. Altruism is the key to the success and growth of the Society. Financial as well as support in kind has been the vital element for survival of the Society. To ensure the continuity of altruism in the form of dedicated volunteers for the cause of
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conservation, the BNHS invites support from all those who care to make a better world for all living beings, including human beings.
Why Volunteer:
An effort, as small as spending time helping others, can go a long way in bringing change in the lives of many. The sheer joy of accomplishment that you get by lending a helping hand to other people and organizations can be quite overwhelming.
People pick up volunteer programmes for many reasons and in many different ways. One of the main reasons is the sense of satisfaction that they get from working towards causes they are interested in. Some people volunteer because they find it is a good way to learn new things and meet new people. And surprisingly volunteering works well for all of them as it helps them start seeing things from a completely new perspective.
As a volunteer you can help us with:
• Nature Trails • Slide shows • Quizzes • Games • Nature Camp Management • Data Entry • Content Generation • Data Mining • Digital Designing • Marketing • Photography • Video Shooting • BNHS Nature Management
Volunteer benefits
• Mentoring • Attendance at BNHS Events • Training opportunities • Job opportunities and experience • Mention on BNHS Website • Annual Felicitation
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Those who want to discover something new and are willing to share their knowledge and experience can contact: Ms Amandeep Kaur, Education Officer / Volunteer Coordinator @ BNHS – CEC on 9594929107 / 9594953425 or Email [email protected]
Corporate Programmes @ CEC Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is becoming an increasingly important activity for businesses nationally and internationally. Nearly all leading corporates in India are involved in CSR programmes in areas like education, health, livelihood creation, skill development, and empowerment of the weaker sections of society. By far the most important thing we can invest in is our future, and what better than a clean and green future for the generations to come.
At BNHS Nature Reserve (BNR) we provide such opportunities for corporate groups. We provide you with a number of avenues to explore environmental awareness and sustainable lifestyles. We conduct customized employee sensitization workshops, wilderness camps, eco-days celebrations, and provide volunteering opportunities. Register for any of the programmes and make a difference for your staff and company.
For details contact Ms Priti Choghale, Senior Education Officer on 9594929107/ 9223513425
Free Day Trips to CEC for Underprivileged Children This year, the CEC-Mumbai is happy to announce free day visits for 300 underprivileged children at the BNHS Nature Reserve. The programme includes a two and half hour nature trail, a forest tour wherein the children will be walking through the wilderness, observing local flora and fauna, an audiovisual show and wildlife quiz activity. Any individual or NGO working with underprivileged children can book their visit at CEC free of cost during weekdays.
We are thankful to our individual donors: Mr. Venkatesh Parthasarthy and Mrs. Renee Vyas who made this endeavour possible. We are seeking individual donations towards this cause which costs Rs.170/- per child (includes programme fee, breakfast, and gift).
For details contact Ms Amandeep Kaur, Education Officer on 9594929107/ 9223513425