As part of the #YoungBirdersChallenge that took place in the last week of December 2024, we received some beautiful entries. It’s refreshing to see how young minds are exploring nature through journals, sketches, and observations. Two budding young birders have shared their thoughtful contributions with us. In this post, we take a closer look at the work of Magizh C T and Abhinav Raha, who observed and documented the natural world around them.
Magizh’s Beautiful Bird Journal: From the Indian Robin to the Indian Roller
Magizh has truly captured her experience with her detailed nature journal. One of her entries features the Indian Robin, which she spotted in the birdhouse she built herself. She has even included a small sketch to bring her observation to life. Her observation of the Indian Roller, with its stunning feathers featured in her journal, is also a highlight.
But that wasn’t all. Magizh’s adventure took her from Thanjavur to Poompuhar, where she encountered an impressive 16 different species of birds. From these observations, she created a Bird Observation Log, noting down all the birds she’d seen on her journey, and even including some sketches.
Magizh’s journal also includes a beautiful map of the Thendral Fish Farm. The map is a thoughtful creation and provides clarity about the different landmarks. The effort she put into creating this map is commendable.
One of the most creative additions to Magizh’s journal is her Sound Map. Not only did she document the sounds of nature, but she also included man-made sounds. This adds another layer of depth to her observations, capturing the full spectrum of her auditory experiences.
Abhinav’s Exploration: Neighbourhood Maps and the Andaman Coucal
Abhinav’s entries show a similar level of enthusiasm and attention to detail, with a particular focus on his local surroundings. His neighbourhood map is a fascinating snapshot of his world.
One of the highlights of Abhinav’s journal is his entry on the Andaman Coucal. He didn’t just write about the bird – he took the time to sketch it and label its parts. Along with the Coucal, Abhinav also documented his observations of birds in the Austinabad Local Village, noting about 10 species he spotted.
Much like Magizh, Abhinav has created a sound map, focusing on bird calls in his neighbourhood. His sound map shows where different bird sounds are coming from, a fascinating way to experience the environment in an auditory sense.
Both Magizh and Abhinav have shown keen observation and creativity in their entries, capturing the essence of birding and the natural world through sketches, entries, maps and more.
Have you participated in the #YoungBirdersChallenge? Whether you’ve been out exploring your neighborhood, drawing your favourite birds, or capturing the sounds of nature, we’d love to see your entries. Share your creations with us and continue to inspire others with your observations and creativity.
This challenge is a wonderful reminder of how nature can spark curiosity and imagination, no matter your age. So, pick up a pencil, head outdoors, and start your own nature journal today. Who knows – your next discovery might just be the next entry we feature!