Author: Bendangnekshi Aier is a member of Eco-Warriors Nagaland and a forestry graduate. He works as a vocational trainer at GHS Tizit village in Mon district, Nagaland.
My birding journey began as a simple hobby, driven by a curiosity about the natural world and the allure of being outdoors. Over time, this hobby has evolved into a deep and lasting passion, especially through memorable encounters with rare and migratory bird species. Events such as, the Tokhü Emong Bird Count (TEBC) an annual event initiated in November 2022 have played a pivotal role in enriching my understanding of the vital ecological roles that birds play. This growing awareness turned birding from a casual pastime into a lifelong commitment to conservation. Witnessing the seasonal migrations of majestic birds such as the Amur Falcon or spotting rare endemic species feels akin to uncovering nature’s hidden treasures.
Tokhü Emong Bird Count 2023 covered all the districts of Nagaland. For the event, Mon district offered a remarkable convergence of cultural celebration and birding activities. It is a sanctuary for a variety of bird species, many of which are rarely found elsewhere. The region’s rich cultural heritage, particularly that of the Konyak tribe, is closely intertwined with nature, especially with birds. For them, birds are not only valuable for their ecological presence but also for their symbolic power. The Great Indian Hornbill stands out as a symbol of life, identity, and spirituality.
In traditional Konyak society, hornbill feathers and beaks were used in ceremonial headdress worn by warriors and chieftains, symbolising prestige, courage, and social standing. A warrior who had proven his bravery in battle would be allowed to wear such an elaborate headpiece, marking him as a leader within his community. This connection between the hornbill and warrior identity reflects the deep cultural significance of the bird, which represents strength, leadership and honour. Birds, in general, hold great spiritual importance in Konyak folklore, often linked to ancestral myths as messengers or guides for the living during times of transition. In some oral traditions, birds are believed to carry the souls of the dead to the afterlife, highlighting their mystical significance as more than just physical creatures.
A significant highlight of the TEBC 2023 was the enthusiastic involvement of students from Government High School, Tizit village. For many of these students, it was their first time engaging in birdwatching. Their reactions ranged from sheer fascination to a newfound appreciation for the natural world around them. Reflecting on their experiences, many of these students expressed how birding had opened their eyes to the importance of conservation, helping them forge a deeper connection with their environment. One student shared with me, “Watching birds feels like reading nature’s diary reminding us that there’s so much more to discover and protect the world around us.” This sentiment captures the transformative impact that birdwatching had on young learners, sparking an enduring interest in preserving the beauty and biodiversity of their surroundings.
Looking ahead, birding in Mon holds great promise for the future. The students, with their proximity to nature and growing interest in conservation, are well-positioned to become the district’s future leaders in conservation efforts. Compared to more urban districts, Mon’s youth seem more connected to wildlife, offering hope for sustained conservation initiatives in the region.
As an agriculturist, I see a strong and essential connection between birding and agriculture. Birds play a vital role in natural pest control, pollination, and seed dispersal, all of which contribute to healthier and more sustainable agricultural systems. Their presence also reflects the overall health of the environment, which directly impacts farming practices. This symbiotic relationship between agriculture and birding underscores the importance of maintaining a balanced ecosystem, one that is crucial for both biodiversity and agricultural productivity.
However, some traditional practices, particularly hunting, have historically posed a threat to avian life in the region. Thankfully, growing conservation efforts are helping to reverse this trend, fostering greater awareness of the need to protect avian species. TEBC has played a key role in shifting local perspectives, encouraging individuals that were once hunters to become active participants in conservation. The involvement of local guides, who are knowledgeable about traditional bird names and their cultural significance, adds a meaningful dimension to the birdwatching experience, blending cultural heritage with modern conservation efforts.
Bendangnekshi Aier, member of Eco-Warriors Nagaland and forestry graduate
The potential benefits of birding for Nagaland are vast. Birdwatching has the potential to boost eco-tourism while also raising awareness about environmental conservation. Moreover, birding teaches important societal values such as patience, careful observation, and respect for nature. It fosters a collective sense of responsibility towards preserving Nagaland’s rich natural resources.
Despite these positive developments, challenges remain. Habitat destruction, driven by agricultural expansion and deforestation, continues to threaten the region’s biodiversity. While festivals like Tokhü Emong celebrate the beauty of avian species, they also serve as a reminder of the urgent need for sustained conservation efforts. Encouragingly, the active participation of local communities in protecting species such as the Amur Falcon offers hope that cultural celebrations and environmental conservation can coexist harmoniously.
By engaging a wide range of stakeholders, including educational institutions, local communities, policymakers, and eco-tourism ventures, birding can be transformed into a powerful tool for raising environmental awareness and inspiring conservation action. Through education and direct involvement in conservation efforts, future generations will be better equipped to continue the important work of preserving Nagaland’s unique ecosystems, ensuring that its natural heritage is cherished and protected for years to come.
*The Tokhü Emong Bird Count 2024 will be organised from 4-7 November 2024 in all districts of Nagaland.
