The Young Birders’ Workshop (YBW) 2024 has just concluded, leaving behind a trail of fond memories and a wealth of knowledge gained by enthusiastic participants. This year’s workshop coincided perfectly with the breeding season of many birds, offering the young birders a unique opportunity to observe bird nests and witness firsthand the wonders of bird life.

Nests Galore

With the workshop set during the breeding season, participants were able to engage in numerous observations of bird nests. These observations provided real-time learning about the nesting behaviours and parental care exhibited by different bird species. The young birders eagerly noted the variety of nests, the types of materials used, and the diligent efforts of parent birds in raising their chicks.

Sharing Classes: A Platform for Enthusiastic Observations

The sharing classes were a lot of fun and learning. Participants brought their observations and stories to these sessions, sparking lively discussions and a deeper understanding of bird behaviour. The enthusiasm was palpable as each child shared unique sightings, be it a rare bird encounter or an amusing bird activity. Participants learned as much from each other as they did from the instructors.

Applying Learnings On the Go

Several participants travelled during the workshop, bringing an added dimension to their learning experience. They applied the principles of nature journaling, keen observation, and listening to bird calls in new environments. It was rewarding to see how the skills acquired during the workshop were put into practice, enriching the travel experiences of these young birders and allowing them to make detailed observations across different habitats.

Spotlight on Penguins, Flamingos, Hornbills, and Cuckoos

There were lively discussions during the workshop about fascinating bird species and their unique adaptations.

Energising Games

To keep the energy levels high, the workshop included several interactive games. Two favourites were “Elemental” and “Act Like A.”

Elemental

In this game, each element of life – fire, water, air, earth, and space – was associated with an action. Participants had to perform the corresponding action for nature-related prompts, making it a fun way to connect with natural elements.

Act Like A

This game requires kids to enact cues from nature, such as falling leaves or imitating animals and birds through actions and sounds. This game was a hit, combining creativity with physical activity.

Concluding Party

The workshop concluded with an online party filled with bird-themed games:

• Identify the Bird on the Flashcard: Participants had to name the bird depicted on flashcards, testing their identification skills.
• Bird Atlas: Similar to World Atlas, this game involved naming birds starting with the last letter of the previous bird name mentioned, such as saying “Toucan” if the previous bird name was “Barbet.”
• Picto-Bird: A drawing game where participants illustrate birds using different images for others to guess.
• Two Truths One Lie: This game involved participants making three statements about nature, with others guessing which one was false. For example:
  – Elephants walk on their toes.
  – Hummingbirds are found in India.
  – Eggshell and chalk are made up of the same chemical compound.
  Here, the second statement is the one that’s false. In reality, hummingbirds are not found in India.

The Young Birders’ Workshop 2024 was a success, fostering a love for birding and nature in young hearts. The combination of in-depth learning, practical application, and fun activities ensured that every participant walked away with enriched knowledge and a deeper appreciation for birds. Here’s to hoping that the next workshop is just as fruitful and inspiring!

---

Learn more about the Young Birders’ Network and follow Early Bird’s WhatsApp Channel to stay updated.