500 to flock to city for meet on birds

Come January, a special treat is in store for bird enthusiasts in the city. More than 500 experts, ornithologists and other bird-lovers will converge here for a two-day conference, starting January 17, to be a part of the 28th Maharashtra Pakshimitra Sammelan, which is being held for the second time in Pune.

Slated to be held at the Mahatma Phule Museum on Ghole Road, the conference will focus extensively on the endangered species of bird life of Maharashtra, said Bhau Katdare, President, Maharashtra Pakshimitra, the organisation that initiated this annual conference and that conducts the state bird census every year. He added that while Pune’s Nature Walk Trust is organising the event at the local level, it is supported by over 30 NGOs across Maharashtra.

“More than 50 species of birds are in the endangered lists thanks to factors like habitat loss, rampant use of insecticides and population explosion. Apart from showcasing the efforts of bird lovers and experts across the state, the conference is also a channel to deliberate on effective strategies,” said Katdare, adding that some topics discussed at previous conferences include livelihoods through bird tourism, bird literature, popularization of bird hobby and public awareness etc.

Besides research paper presentations, illustrated talks, seminars and lecture series, the event will also feature some interesting events such as film screenings and birding trails on the second day with ornithologists.