Campus Bird Count 2026 at Maharaja's College
42 Bird Species Found at Maharaja's College; Rufous Woodpecker Sparks Curiosity
Ernakulam: Birdwatchers who participated in the 'Campus Bird Count 2026' held on February 13 at Maharaja’s College premises—under the auspices of 'Bird Count India'—confidently state that the college belongs to the birds as well. In a three-hour survey conducted across the college campus and grounds by the Bhoomithrasena and Nature Club, 38 species of birds were identified. The team had previously conducted a survey in 2023, and across both studies, a total of 42 species have been recorded on campus so far. These findings have been documented on the e-Bird website.
Abin Joseliph, an urban biodiversity researcher from Thevara Sacred Heart College, led the identification and counting of the birds. The survey was organized by Club Coordinators Dr. Shanti Vasudevan C.N. (Associate Professor, Botany), Dr. Ajit Kumar T.G. (Assistant Professor, Botany), and Ms. Sharmila P.S. (Assistant Professor, Zoology). For student participants including Anamika, Hamida, Rifa, Sreenanda, Shadiya, Sreelakshmi, Vismaya, Hansha, Amaljith, and Ansil, the survey provided an opportunity to closely observe and understand the avian diversity of their college.
Seasonal Visitors and Residents
Among the birds found on campus, the Indian Golden Oriole, Barn Swallow, Blue-tailed Bee-eater, Blyth's Reed Warbler, and Cattle Egret are winter visitors, while the others are local residents.
The Star of the Show: The Rufous Woodpecker
The Rufous Woodpecker particularly caught the observers' attention. Although it is a native species, it is typically seen only in areas with dense tree cover. Sporting a deep reddish-brown (rufous) body, it features numerous black bars on its back, wings, and tail. These birds feed on ants and termites and uniquely build their nests inside the nests of tree ants.
Most Common Sightings
Among the birds observed this time, the House Crow, Rock Pigeon, Asian Koel, Black Kite, Pale-billed Flowerpecker, and Purple-rumped Sunbird were the most numerous. Urban biodiversity researcher Abin Joseliph noted that populations of House Crows, Rock Pigeons, and Black Kites are generally higher in urban ecosystems. Dr. Shanti Vasudevan and Dr. Ajit Kumar added that the presence of trees laden with fruits and flowers is likely what attracts large numbers of Koels and Sunbirds to the campus.
Programme Expenditure
| Sl | Particulars | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Remuneration for Resource Person | 2000 |
| Total | 2000 |
Report of the programme Download