Young Birders’ Month 2025: Nationwide initiative for children to explore India’s birds
IN NEWS:
Young Birders’ Month 2025: Nationwide initiative for children to explore India’s birds
1. What is Young Birders’ Month (YBM)?
- A nationwide, inaugural initiative (2025) focused on introducing children to birdwatching and biodiversity.
- Conducted through November 2025 across India.
2. Implementing Agencies
- Early Bird – education programme promoting bird learning among children.
- WWF-India – conservation organisation facilitating awareness and biodiversity education.
3. Objectives of the Initiative
- Help children view birds as:
- Indicators of ecological balance
- Entry points for biodiversity learning
- Promote hands-on learning experiences.
- Create a national movement for youth engagement in nature conservation.
4. Why November?
- Period when migratory birds arrive across Indian wetlands and forests.
- Includes:
- Dr. Salim Ali’s birth anniversary – 12 November
- Children’s Day – 14 November
- Weather suitable for outdoor birdwatching activities.
5. Activities under YBM
- Bird walks hosted by schools and local clubs
- Nature quizzes and competitions
- Art/poster workshops
- Storytelling sessions
- Online courses and discussions on bird habitats
Participating organisations have autonomy to design their own programmes.
6. Participation & Registration
- Open to schools, birding clubs, NGOs, conservation groups and educators.
- Event submission through the “Host an Event” page on the official website.
- More details: www.youngbirders.in
1. Role of Birdwatching in Conservation
- Birds act as:
- Bioindicators for ecosystem health
- Pollinators and seed dispersers
- Early warning systems for ecological disturbances
2. Dr. Salim Ali
- Revered as the “Birdman of India”.
- Influential in shaping Indian ornithology and ecological research.
3. Migratory Birds in India (General Context)
- India receives migrants along the Central Asian Flyway, such as:
- Bar-headed Goose
- Northern Pintail
- Amur Falcon