Kanniyakumari Nature Foundation arranged for a bird watching session for public and bird watchers in Kalikesam on August 19, 2022. The eagerness to attend the session was overwhelming. A group of 23 people arrived at Kalikesam eco camp by 6.30 AM. Along with the forest guard, watcher and APW the walk started in Maramalai road.
It was an overcast, hot and humid day. So the bird activities were very less. There were random sightings of Bronzed drongo, Jungle babbler, Crimson-backed Sunbird, Pale-billed flower pecker. That didn’t dampen the spirits of the crowd. The attention had turned to the plants, spiders, caterpillars etc. Shampoo gingers were everywhere, the bright red color in contrast to the green background was a lovely sight.
Impatiens added a pink palette to the forest. Giant Wood Spiders have constructed large webs. The group watched everything in amazement.
On the way back, many caterpillars, plant hoppers were noted on the leaves. It was a nature walk rather than a bird walk. The group reached the eco camp for breakfast. After the breakfast, the group sat together and a brief introduction was done by everyone.
Near the campsite, leaf birds, Orange minivets, Crested Serpent eagle, Jungle fowl, Little Cormorant were seen. For many people that was the first birding experience and they really enjoyed it.