ECO WARRIORS NAGALAND INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME FOR THE SESSION 2025: Birding Trip With Unity College to Old Jalukie
Birding Expedition to Old Jalukie: A Journey into Conservation and Avian Diversity
Recently, our interns along with students from Unity College ventured into the verdant community forests of Old Jalukie. This visit wasn’t just a field trip—it was a peek into the heart of community-led conservation.
Old Jalukie is celebrated statewide and nationally for its exemplary conservation efforts. The villagers established a 370-hectare Community Biodiversity Reserve, invoked a strict ban on jhum cultivation, hunting, and logging, and have been honored with multiple awards, including the India Biodiversity Award (2014) and the Governor’s Award (2015)
Eco Warriors Nagaland recently organized a birding trip to Old Jalukie for our interns and participating school students. The purpose of this visit was to provide hands-on exposure to the biodiversity of Nagaland and to encourage young learners to appreciate the importance of community-led conservation.
During the journey, the group explored the community forest, observed a variety of local bird species, and learned about the interconnectedness of forests and wildlife. Interns facilitated interactive sessions with the students, highlighting ecological principles, conservation practices, and the significance of maintaining biodiversity.
This educational field trip not only enhanced birding knowledge but also instilled in participants a deeper sense of responsibility towards protecting the environment. Such initiatives remain central to Eco Warriors Nagaland’s mission of fostering environmental awareness and inspiring future conservation leaders.
The forest soon came alive with the sound of bird calls. Students, guided by the interns, spotted colorful species and learned how to identify them. Some sketched in their notebooks, while others eagerly shared observations. For many, this was their very first birdwatching experience, and the sense of wonder was clear on their faces.
By the end of the day, the journey had become more than just a trip—it was a shared adventure of learning, teamwork, and connecting with nature. Everyone returned home inspired, carrying with them not only memories of Old Jalukie’s beauty but also a stronger commitment to protecting the environment.
