The Hindu : Andhra Pradesh / Hyderabad News : Get set for some exciting bird watching

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Thursday, Nov 16, 2006
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Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh - Hyderabad

Get set for some exciting bird watching

Special Correspondent

Birdwatchers' Society of Andhra Pradesh is organising the first HSBC-Hyderabad Bird Race on November 26

HYDERABAD: Ever spotted the otherwise elusive Blue Rock Thrush, the Yellow Wagtail and the Northern Pintail spread their plumes, in and around city?

If your answer is "no" like many city dwellers, then pack up and participate in dawn-to-dusk first ever HSBC-Hyderabad Bird Race on November 26. There is a fair chance of spotting them, for winter is the peak season when you find them in Hyderabad. You need not be a professional birdwatcher. All it requires is a pair of keen eyes that could track the winged beauties.

Inspired by the popularity of similar races in Hong Kong, Singapore and Mumbai, the Birdwatchers' Society of Andhra Pradesh (BSAP), has brought the event to the city.

Open to all

The race, to be flagged off from the Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet at 6 a.m., is open to all, irrespective of age. There is no entry fee.

Each team, named after a bird found in this region and led by an experienced bird enthusiast (team captain), would comprise of four/five persons and will spend the entire day jotting down as many species of birds as possible. For 12 hours, teams of bird lovers will speed against time in their own cars/ motorbikes to record as many species as possible to win the Hyderabad Bird Race.

"This race has no fixed route. In fact the more spots you visit, the better. And teams are free to draw their own road maps," says Siraj A. Taher, president of the BSAP. "There is a fun element to stimulate enormous interest in bird-watching as a popular hobby and besides, give a good idea of the nature of this region's bird life. It will also help build support for environment and nature conservation."

Prizes

The race has exciting prizes for each team member of the top two winning teams besides other interesting prizes as well. Animal rights activist Amala Akkineni will present the awards in the evening. Those interested could contact coordinator Shafaat Ulla (9885920851) or Mr. Taher (9848272520).

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