Enthusiasts flock to Mandothi wetland to spot migratory birds

The water bodies in Rohtak and Jhajjar districts remain popular destinations for migratory birds, attracting birdwatchers and enthusiasts. These tranquil waters, including those of Sampla in Rohtak district, Dighal, Mandothi, Rohad, Bhindawas and Daboda village in Jhajjar district, host large numbers of migratory birds, creating a spectacle of chirping and swimming birds.

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“Bird enthusiasts from Goa, Maharashtra, Delhi, Karnataka, Asam and Chandigarh continue to visit these wetlands to spot various species of winged guests,” said Rakesh Ahlawat, an environment enthusiast, adding that more than 100 species of migratory birds were witnessed here this season.

Recently, a group of teachers and students from Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU) visited Mandothi village to witness these migratory birds. The visit was part of a workshop titled "Avian awareness and conservation," organised by the university's Environment Sustainability and Management Cell.

“I never imagined I would witness such rare and beautiful birds so close to Rohtak, near Bahadurgarh. Many of these species had migrated from Central Asia and Eastern Europe, while others had travelled from the Himalayas to escape the harsh winter," said Prof Harish Kumar, head of the journalism and mass communication department at MDU.

The workshop, aimed at raising awareness about bird conservation, deepened the students' understanding of the role wetlands play in preserving migratory species.

"The event not only broadened our knowledge of bird conservation efforts but also highlighted the critical role the wetlands play in supporting these migratory birds. The participants gained hands-on experience and valuable insights into conservation practices while observing and identifying the migratory species" added Kumar.

The field trip, led by renowned ornithologist Dr TK Roy, along with ecologist Rakesh Ahlawat, Prof Vinita Hooda, and Dr Isha Gupta, equipped participants with professional cameras and binoculars for birdwatching. Students and faculty members from various departments, including botany, zoology, environmental science, and journalism of the university, came together to observe and learn.

MDU’s Vice-Chancellor Prof Rajbir Singh inaugurated the workshop and delivered an expert talk on "Birdlife and habitat introduction," emphasising the importance of birds in our ecosystem.

Prof Vinita Hooda, coordinator of the ESM Cell and a noted botanist, shared her insights on bird conservation during the workshop. Experts discussed key topics such as the protection of natural habitats, the impact of birds on biodiversity and the challenges posed by climate change.