Report: Keoladeo National Park Educational Field Trip
Report: Keoladeo National Park Educational Field Trip
An oasis of the wilderness, Keoladeo National Park, in Bharatpur, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to over 230 species of birds. It was once an artificial duck-hunting reserve of the kings and is now a wildlife sanctuary. The Multimedia and Mass Communication Department of Indraprastha College for Women, University of Delhi provided a unique opportunity for students to explore its rich wildlife and habitats.
During the field trip, we had the opportunity to observe and capture breath-taking images of the park's vast array of wildlife. The educational field trip to Keoladeo National Park introduces students to the diverse animal and plant life that call the park home.
Our naturalist and guide, Mr Ramesh Gupta, made the field trip special, who gave us a deeper insight into the park and its ecology. He pointed out the significance of the Pilu tree (Salvadora persica), algae on water, Savannah grass, water from Chambal, etc. We were also lucky to spot other mammals like Golden Jackal, Spotted Deer, Nilgai, and Indian Flying Fox (Greater Indian Fruit Bat). We also got to observe reptile life represented by the Indian Roof Turtle and Indian Rock Python.
For photographers, the field trip was an unforgettable experience. The park provided a range of stunning landscapes, reflections, harsh and soft lights, and more, which were perfect for capturing breathtaking images. All of us left the park with a much deeper understanding and appreciation of its beauty.
Accompanied by Dr. Nitoo Das, Dr. Gagan Gera and Ms. Mrinal Singh, the trip allowed students to explore the park's different habitats, including its grasslands, wetlands, and woodlands. They were able to identify and discuss the different flora and fauna found in each area. The students also took part in various activities to help them understand the importance of environmental conservation and the need to protect this special place.
We were fortunate to spot a variety of birds at Keoladeo National Park including:
1. Long-tailed Shrike
2. Spotted Owlet
3. White-throated Kingfisher
4. Northern Pintail
5. Northern Shoveler
6. Painted Stork
7. Eurasian Teal
8. Indian Peafowl
9. Red-vented Bulbul
10. White-eared Bulbul
11. Brahminy Starling
12. Eurasian Coot
13. Common Moorhen
14. White-breasted Waterhen
14. Grey-headed Swamphen
15. Grey Heron
16. Purple Heron
17. Indian Pond Heron
18. Cattle Egret
19. Black-headed Ibis
20. Glossy Ibis
21. Little Cormorant
22. Indian Cormorant
23. Great Cormorant
24. Oriental Darter
25. Black-winged Stilt
26. Red-wattled Lapwing
27. Oriental Magpie Robin
28. Bronze-winged Jacana
29. Common Sandpiper
30. Rose-ringed Parakeet
31. Black Drongo
32. Rufous Treepie
33. Ashy Prinia
34. Jungle Babbler
35. Bar-headed Goose
36. Greylag Goose
37. Lesser Whistling Duck
38. Indian Spot-billed Duck
The Reptile life was represented by the sighting of the Indian Roof Turtle and Indian Rock Python. At the end of the trip, the students better understood the importance of preserving natural habitats and wildlife. They were able to discuss the threats faced by the park’s wildlife and the ways in which humans can help protect it.
The field trip was an immaculate learning experience for the students, and it provided them with the knowledge and motivation to protect the park’s wildlife and habitats, and to take action to ensure its future. The trip drove the students to be more cognizant and protective of the Wildlife, thus celebrating the human-nature bond.