SHRI SHIVAJI SCIENCE COLLEGE, AMRAVATI
DBT STAR COLLEGE PROJECT ACTIVITY
ACTIVITY REPORT
Field Visit to Wetland Ecosystem to Explore Avian Diversity.
Activity Dates: 3rd March 2025
Type of Activity: Field Studies
Organizing Department: Department of Zoology
Program Coordinators: Dr. G. A. Wagh, Dr. S. V. Gawande, Dr. S. J. Kawade, Dr. A. R. Rajoria
Head of the Department: Dr. J. D. Dhote
External Collaborator (if any): -
Objectives:
- 1. The aim of the visit was to provide students with practical exposure to wetland ecosystems, raise awareness about their importance.
- 2. To familiarize students with the concept of wetlands and their role in maintaining biodiversity, water quality, and ecosystem balance.
- 3. To observe and study the flora and fauna of Chhatri Lake, specifically its aquatic and wetland species.
- 4. To raise awareness about the environmental threats faced by wetlands, including pollution, encroachment, and invasive species.
- 5. To engage students in hands-on observation and promote their understanding of wetland ecosystems.
No of Beneficieries: 107
Classes Involved: B.Sc. I & B.Sc. II Students
Venue of the Activity: Chhatri lake, Amravati
Activity Report:
The Zoology Department of Shri Shivaji Science College, Amravati, organized a field visit for B.Sc. 1 and B.Sc. 2 students on 3 March 2025 at Chhatri Lake under the DBT Star Project Scheme and Green Club. This visit was conducted at 7 am. First, the children gathered near the Hanuman Temple and then everyone headed towards Chhatri Lake. Chhatri Lake was studied from all sides. Incharge of B.Sc. Ist year was Dr.S. V. Gawande while Incharge of B.Sc. IInd year Dr. S. J. Kawade and Dr. A. R. Rajoriya.
Dr. G. A. Wagh was the one who guided the students Wetland Ecosystem, Avian Diversity, Migratory Birds, and Local Bird Fauna on this subject. And Students observed Water birds: Such as herons, egrets, and kingfishers, Wading birds: Such as storks, ibises, and spoonbills, Ducks and geese: Such as mallards, pintails, and garganeys, Birds of prey: Such as eagles, hawks, and harriers. Field visit was a part of the curriculum of the students and during this visit the students have studied a lot. The paper of BSc first year students is Fundamental Biology of Vertebrate and during this visit they made a check list in which they included some vertebrate and some invertebrate animals and since BSc second year students paper was Ecology they studied animals related to Ecology and also studied some aquatic weeds. After the visit the students submitted a report to the department and also submitted the check list.
The aim of the visit was to provide students with practical exposure to wetland ecosystems, raise awareness about their importance and to familiarize students with the concept of wetlands and their role in maintaining biodiversity, water quality, and ecosystem balance. Also observe and study the flora and fauna of Chhatri Lake, specifically its aquatic and wetland species. To raise awareness about the environmental threats faced by wetlands, including pollution, encroachment, and invasive species and engage students in hands-on observation and promote their understanding of wetland ecosystems.
The visit began with an introductory talk on wetlands, their significance, and the need for their conservation. Students were informed about the ecological roles of wetlands in water filtration, carbon sequestration, and supporting biodiversity. A guided walk around the lake allowed students to observe various plant and animal species that inhabit the wetland. The students were encouraged to make observations on the diversity of life present, including birds, amphibians, and aquatic plants. Faculty members conducted an interactive session explaining the key wetland species, both flora (e.g., water lilies, reeds, aquatic grasses) and fauna (e.g., migratory birds, fish, and amphibians). Students were asked to identify these species and were given a better understanding of their ecological roles. The group discussed the primary threats facing wetlands, including water pollution, habitat destruction, and the spread of invasive species. Students were shown specific areas of the lake where these issues were evident and were encouraged to think critically about potential solutions. Students actively participated during the walk, discussions, and interactive sessions. Many students expressed that they had learned a lot about the crucial role of wetlands in the environment. They appreciated the opportunity to observe the ecosystem up close, and several students suggested organizing more such field visits for deeper learning experiences. The field visit to Chhatri Lake was highly successful in achieving its objectives. The students left with a clearer understanding of wetland ecosystems, the challenges they face, and the importance of their conservation. This visit has laid the foundation for further exploration and research on wetland conservation under the DBT Project Scheme. Future activities will include student involvement in community outreach programs and continued education on sustainable practices for wetland protection.
The number of B.Sc I & II students for this visit was 107. Head of the Department Dr. Jayashree Dhote as well as Department Coordinator of DBT Star Project Dr. G. A. Wagh, Activity Incharge Dr. S. V. Gawande, Dr. S. J. Kawade. Dr. A. R. Rajoria as well as Attendants of the Department Mangesh Solanke and Praveen Ghurde was present for the visit. And the students were given refreshments of chocolate and biscuits during the visit.
And the outcomes of the field visit effectively increased awareness among the students regarding the importance of wetlands in maintaining ecological balance. Students now have a deeper understanding of the relationship between wetland ecosystems and biodiversity, water quality, and climate regulation. The visit provided a valuable opportunity for students to observe wetland species in their natural habitat, enhancing their practical understanding of theoretical concepts taught in the classroom. Students gained first-hand knowledge of the challenges wetlands face, such as pollution and habitat loss, and recognized the importance of sustainable practices for their protection. Students showed increased interest in participating in wetland conservation projects and research. The visit promoted the idea of community involvement in wetland conservation. Students were encouraged to become advocates for wetland preservation in their local communities and to take part in future awareness campaigns.
Outcomes:
- 1. The field visit effectively increased awareness among the students regarding the importance of wetlands in maintaining ecological balance. Students now have a deeper understanding of the relationship between wetland ecosystems and biodiversity, water quality, and climate regulation.
- 2. The visit provided a valuable opportunity for students to observe wetland species in their natural habitat, enhancing their practical understanding of theoretical concepts taught in the classroom.
- 3. Students gained first-hand knowledge of the challenges wetlands face, such as pollution and habitat loss, and recognized the importance of sustainable practices for their protection.
- 4. Students showed increased interest in participating in wetland conservation projects and research.
- 5. The visit promoted the idea of community involvement in wetland conservation. Students were encouraged to become advocates for wetland preservation in their local communities and to take part in future awareness campaigns.
Photos:
 Study of wetland ecosystem and Bird Watching (Students) |  2. Group photo of B.Sc. I Students |
 3. Group photo of B.Sc. II Students |  4. Faculty gave Information about Wetland ecosystem |
 5. Students searching Migratory Birds |  6. Students Searching Birds |
Attendance Sheet:
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |