tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82532811206842929392024-03-13T01:09:35.941-07:00Green Diaries!"A true conservationist is a man who knows that the world is not given by his fathers but borrowed from his children." -- John James Audubon.Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.comBlogger37125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-3271614906708193122013-06-20T11:38:00.000-07:002013-06-20T11:38:14.370-07:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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To all my blogger friends, <o:p></o:p></div>
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I am very sorry for not posting about my experiences and
adventures. I have had many and haven’t had the time to sit and pen my
experiences and thoughts. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I shall keep posting and keep my journal, Green Diaries
going. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Thank you! <o:p></o:p></div>
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Warm Regards, <o:p></o:p></div>
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Natasha Ballal<o:p></o:p></div>
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Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-70288093408010878502010-11-03T23:22:00.000-07:002010-11-03T23:22:24.450-07:00Koraga community of South India<u><b>Koraga community</b></u> is considered one of the most primitive communities in India. They are the worshipers of Nature. They are very shy and do not mingle with outsiders. Koragas are divided into a number of exogamous clans or sects. The clan is known as the <b>bali</b>. There are 17 balis found among Koragas. The Koragas are basically agriculturists and their livelihood depends on forest produce such as bamboo, cane and creepers for basket making. Koragas sing songs and perform folkdances, rituals and magic to appease their deity for bountiful crops and to eradicate epidemics.<br />
Koragas are experts in making baskets using creepers, canes and bamboos by splitting and weaving them artistically. Basketry is the main source of income of the Koraga tribal community. The skill of making baskets is transferred from one generation to the other. Even the children weave baskets.<br />
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I got to visit the community on a project and got exposed to their life. It was a touching experience as i met many Koraga Families. There life style has drastically changed. They were forest dwellers and lived in the forests. They don't have contact with the outside world. Now the state government has built them houses and also toilets. It has been a difficult process as they were unfriendly. Slowly they accepted the govt workers and today their life is better. But the Koraga community have a long road ahead. <br />
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I witnessed and met some strong women who fought to get toilets established in their homes. They are more friendly towards the outer world today and i hope we, the community can help such backward groups to have the basic facilities and rights in life.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6jeDGziM3hlx7QfF4XHLZXQJqxpuL360zfONSLW65MCpqSREcpPmDfX2T2TxToTY_ELVdwLuAXaTvSiBUncSfqVEc_OzpZyEhXzCJiy_CZkUZNZgUFLpPswVXBIUJEUKKrsVWmmfJ96o/s1600/IMG_4486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6jeDGziM3hlx7QfF4XHLZXQJqxpuL360zfONSLW65MCpqSREcpPmDfX2T2TxToTY_ELVdwLuAXaTvSiBUncSfqVEc_OzpZyEhXzCJiy_CZkUZNZgUFLpPswVXBIUJEUKKrsVWmmfJ96o/s320/IMG_4486.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> A very Old couple (Both over 90) who has 19 children<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbu8KjmodK8JfGD5i6ezXa6C5XzPbqDm-d-71B1gxQTZurERhf-le0C9Tk-3qxwu9Q3WBmX_CPoi39BgMzjhoIGPrxGtieCFeTAwa9wiDKeAcLm2Zh9FXu7X6c6dlngJpZd1pZKVfF-Hs/s1600/IMG_4596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbu8KjmodK8JfGD5i6ezXa6C5XzPbqDm-d-71B1gxQTZurERhf-le0C9Tk-3qxwu9Q3WBmX_CPoi39BgMzjhoIGPrxGtieCFeTAwa9wiDKeAcLm2Zh9FXu7X6c6dlngJpZd1pZKVfF-Hs/s320/IMG_4596.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Baskets<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyP3Ewl3n_F6AGiU0O5352BDsEGf1GTFLi-HaqsmOUC5UgdUYe2k444YR29SQChgbfj_bNaRi9yRBUguyJgGTvR4DiCMiJRGI_ahepL8YJ2xkB8IQH1oY791jm1ia5Au_ue3D5DE1LZ6Q/s1600/IMG_4492.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyP3Ewl3n_F6AGiU0O5352BDsEGf1GTFLi-HaqsmOUC5UgdUYe2k444YR29SQChgbfj_bNaRi9yRBUguyJgGTvR4DiCMiJRGI_ahepL8YJ2xkB8IQH1oY791jm1ia5Au_ue3D5DE1LZ6Q/s320/IMG_4492.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> House Constructed with a toilet<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMjdaO6cH1x4R9ghU426KNmGUw6WjxK0sFIzvOK3u9DbcRBxr8jfO_ghWVzFuQSMzeRIaJq1z2HhRrhju2n6ASntgVDZy9cmBBWnsiHNcK1Ouskf3KiOOnM43p-E88Y5lw0xAXnbRyxQA/s1600/Koragas.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMjdaO6cH1x4R9ghU426KNmGUw6WjxK0sFIzvOK3u9DbcRBxr8jfO_ghWVzFuQSMzeRIaJq1z2HhRrhju2n6ASntgVDZy9cmBBWnsiHNcK1Ouskf3KiOOnM43p-E88Y5lw0xAXnbRyxQA/s320/Koragas.JPG" width="213" /></a></div> With a Koraga Baby: HarishNatasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-14576848421936931482010-08-26T04:32:00.000-07:002010-08-26T04:32:12.008-07:00Hornbills at Dandeli!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTMaikjsrbr96CZw-_JoibloOQG1SdhrlFcJYsJZYZ6v2rXi4xoPrJAKlpehlWnwFf7NOM2Ay_gsENhzdOgYRYkNwieeFoHj7xAj7x81-ri5NXpZa7bOULsvH2_UQNWIZjXx9cSbctweI/s1600/mixed+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTMaikjsrbr96CZw-_JoibloOQG1SdhrlFcJYsJZYZ6v2rXi4xoPrJAKlpehlWnwFf7NOM2Ay_gsENhzdOgYRYkNwieeFoHj7xAj7x81-ri5NXpZa7bOULsvH2_UQNWIZjXx9cSbctweI/s320/mixed+005.jpg" /></a></div> <span style="color: #6aa84f;"><b>Malabar Pied Hornbill - <span style="background-color: cyan;">Natasha Ballal</span>.</b></span><br />
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Dandeli has always been known as great place to sight the 4 hornbills. Dandeli- Anshi Tiger Reserve is the second largest reserve in Karnataka.<br />
* The woods of dandeli are known to inhibit four different types of hornbills; <b>Common Grey hornbill, Malabar Grey hornbill, Malabar pied hornbill and Great pied hornbill. </b><br />
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The Malabar pied hornbill is found in good numbers. The Malabar Pied Hornbill (<i>Anthracoceros coronatus</i>) and Indian Grey Hornbill (<i>Ocyceros birostris</i>) are endemic to the Indian subcontinent whereas the Malabar Grey Hornbill (<i>Ocyceros griseus</i>) is endemic to Western Ghat. Hence, the Malabar pied Hornbill is protected under the Wildlife Act (schedule 1) .It has been declared near threatened by the Birdlife International.<br />
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They have a very unique and beautiful nesting behaviour. <br />
The male and female select a suitable nest hold. Once this is done, the female enters into the hold and seals it by using a sticky paste made from her own droppings mixed with twigs and other waste materials. The female hornbill uses her large beak for this cementing process. She covers the hold almost completely, leaving a small opening just wide enough to put her beak out for food. The male hornbill meanwhile travels over a distance of several kilometers within the forest in search of food, which he then passes on to his female through the nest opening. And thus the days go by, with the female laying her eggs inside her cozy habitation. The eggs are hatched over a period of six to eight weeks. The slightest disturbance at the nest site can result in the male refusing to feed the nest inmates, thus threatening the survival of the female and chicks.<br />
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A hornbill trail has been set up at the timber depot in Dandeli, to let people explore the world of hornbills. Recognizing their significance, Dandeli has been declared a Hornbill Conservation Reserve.<br />
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Click here for the article: http://www.deccanchronicle.com/bengaluru/dandeli-now-hornbill-conservation-reserve-061Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-1530189318849761452010-08-05T03:53:00.000-07:002010-08-05T03:53:50.389-07:00My neighbour!On a visit to Anshi Nature Camp a month ago, i had a visitor at my tent. When i awoke early morning, he was right outside my tent door :) cuddled up around a flap of the tent. The weather was cold and it was pouring. Guess who? A Malabar pit viper.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgF16VYOG4nqX02O1ShmCE7bvoZ06SOdPZ7I75u3z8vdslAWX2M94a_tqlhHOBJvU79hfdZq88nRTliLcwlVGQR34TrIxLiDC2IQgNVJURMeblTXh6P_SHPL1uB3eCEVyNzFUMea5V5ks/s1600/Anshi+Nature+Camp+for+Rural+Children+064.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgF16VYOG4nqX02O1ShmCE7bvoZ06SOdPZ7I75u3z8vdslAWX2M94a_tqlhHOBJvU79hfdZq88nRTliLcwlVGQR34TrIxLiDC2IQgNVJURMeblTXh6P_SHPL1uB3eCEVyNzFUMea5V5ks/s320/Anshi+Nature+Camp+for+Rural+Children+064.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6smMErRoXAEEeuZu49aKpss9ir0_IIi7salvyWT3TK3DpzDMTniGmAe9GQGrig8NjBuKPXCcRHfn6QddFGsuyv7mfnTE3mwkDC7cTQuRLAPiUCcFl2CR38w0bxTYRQkTfWYYsDFUpUkA/s1600/Anshi+Nature+Camp+for+Rural+Children+066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6smMErRoXAEEeuZu49aKpss9ir0_IIi7salvyWT3TK3DpzDMTniGmAe9GQGrig8NjBuKPXCcRHfn6QddFGsuyv7mfnTE3mwkDC7cTQuRLAPiUCcFl2CR38w0bxTYRQkTfWYYsDFUpUkA/s320/Anshi+Nature+Camp+for+Rural+Children+066.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Malabar Pit Viper: Trimeresurus malabaricus</div>Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-2192500325033026372010-07-22T00:44:00.000-07:002010-07-22T01:18:57.996-07:00Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPVhU4kjbhmEXSSyJhtpU2WYM8efO-28q1SiIJTeWptn_cKYSrmM7RVLuDMcqK5rRKKmlWqINQVCMz80XbE9oeT_KR7fDPWacr0-ZeKSSnu4sTuhHrA7ruxk15x8iShzHSBoYTLuC7_U8/s1600/mixed+196.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPVhU4kjbhmEXSSyJhtpU2WYM8efO-28q1SiIJTeWptn_cKYSrmM7RVLuDMcqK5rRKKmlWqINQVCMz80XbE9oeT_KR7fDPWacr0-ZeKSSnu4sTuhHrA7ruxk15x8iShzHSBoYTLuC7_U8/s200/mixed+196.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496640701941143874" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">A visit to Gopinatham</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Background</span>: The River Cauvery flows through the major part of this protected area. The sanctuary has riverine, dry deciduous forests and some patches of scrub forest. This area has been recognized as an Important Bird Area having a rich diversity of birdlife with nearly 127 species of birds identified here. The stretch of Cauvery River that borders the sanctuary is an ideal breeding ground for the rare mahseer. <br />MM Hills serves as an important elephant corridor between the Western and Eastern Ghats. <br /> Gopinatham is one of the small villages in the reserve. Soligas and Lingayats are the dominant communities in the MM Hills.<br /><br />My journey!<br /><br />This was my second visit to this place. I loved my first visit and was ecstatic when my work took me there again. I was looking forward toward the lovely weather and beautiful lake out, hoping to catch some shots of the Birds. On reaching the Cauvery river side I noticed a group of Babblers whacking a Crested Serpent eagle. He had his feathers ruffled and seemed confused. Suddenly he took flight with the babblers not far behind. <br /><br />On reaching I was in for a rude shock. The lake had dried up and the streams were empty. The lovely weather was replaced by a humid feeling and the forests were dry. It was pouring in Bangalore but it hadn’t here as yet.<br /><br />We freshened up and set out to trek. We had gone to work on the Trail booklets. My colleague and I, with a forest guard set out on our trek. The lake which was buzzing with activity the last time was duller. There were little pockets of water left. The kingfishers I saw was the White Breasted Kingfisher gliding over the water for his meal. The other kingfisher I spotted was the Common blue Kingfisher. Other water birds like the Cormorants were seen near the lake and the noisy Red Wattled Lapwing. Red rumped Swallow’s were gliding and perched on the wires. There’s a temple built near the dam and the locals offer prayers. The temple was built at the same time the dam was built. This is dedicated to God Muneshwara. The signage board is the start of our trek into the forest. Lots of Blue jays or Indian Roller is seen as it’s hard to miss them in flight, flashing its brilliant wings. (This is the State bird of Karnataka). <br /><br />As I was walking I realized there were a lot of Lantana Camara bushes. Here in this forest, Lantana invasion is high (covering 80%) of the land. This happened due to the mass felling of native vegetation - especially bamboo, leaving the ground open for the rapid spread of lantana. This has had an impact on the native flora and fauna. (Atree involves locals to make furniture out of these Lantana bushes to reduce the spread of theses bushes). <br />Interesting note: Lantana (Lantana camara) is native to tropical America. Lantana was brought to India by the British in 1807 as an ornamental plant for the Calcutta Botanical Garden.<br /><br />As I was walking I suddenly spotted a sambar, I walked further and could hear an alarm call of another Sambar close by. The trek took me mostly around the lake. I saw lots of indirect evidences of sloth bears and dung of elephants. The guide told us that during the monsoons lots of elephants flock to the lake. Bird life is good as I heard the constant calls of the Brain fever bird (Common Hawk Cuckoo), Rufous treepie and the crimson throated barbet. All the stream beds I passed were dry. The trek was pleasant and I saw lots of butterflies. While passing a stream I spotted a lovely peacock. Nearing camp there seemed to see lots of bear activity. We saw the bears foot prints and all the termite mounds were broken. We crossed the dam and headed to camp as it was getting dark. The camp is being renovated and it’s basic. The forest at night is lovely and quite. The camp is being done up and is called The Mystery Camp. We had our dinner at camp and headed to bed as we had a long trek ahead the next day.<br /><br />We awoke early and set out on the trek. I spotted a lovely Pied Cuckoo near camp. We headed along the lake to see the memorial of the Late Shri P. Srinivas the DCF who was murdered by the late forest brigade Verappan. In honour of his Chivalry he’s been awarded the Keerthi Chakra. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFjw2aGZpvz8dtZNwasXTp3SV0k4BdpEB97cYO2lvUFYztuLKxI1uooDy7KpXefReAn0R1kdYvZJ4yN_a8OMrp7at5R1Sc2L8cefNHUFYOPlh-bvwj__IESrBPt5nDt_ANQkNVAn1K8D0/s1600/mixed+178.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFjw2aGZpvz8dtZNwasXTp3SV0k4BdpEB97cYO2lvUFYztuLKxI1uooDy7KpXefReAn0R1kdYvZJ4yN_a8OMrp7at5R1Sc2L8cefNHUFYOPlh-bvwj__IESrBPt5nDt_ANQkNVAn1K8D0/s200/mixed+178.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496635238092875250" /></a><br />I observed lots of butterflies’ mudpuddling and took decent pictures of them :) From there we turned back, to head to camp. On the trek I noticed a squirrel screeching and suddenly a monitor lizard is up on the tree and enters a hole. It was amazing. <br /><br />I noted a lovely smooth greyish-white bark tree with a silvery luster with soft leaves called <span style="font-style:italic;">Gyrocarpus americanus</span>. (The seeds are sometimes strung into necklaces) I found this everywhere. On one particular tree I saw a bear’s foot print. We didn’t see much wildlife on foot but nevertheless this place is unique in its habitat. <br /><br />A Fallen Egg: Looks like a Jewel.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzmpsuMivOsU4FInz1o3A566NNs5EgPozly4S3tPKhIRBVTHaJr5kTlI5lZXw5IswwmnUk2zIM4Gewta30Kmn-iE6xm5xNS_MIFPX4iEvsIhWS2BwMc7-nNeHUvQRfhMI0EY-Ywza1ENs/s1600/mixed+198.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzmpsuMivOsU4FInz1o3A566NNs5EgPozly4S3tPKhIRBVTHaJr5kTlI5lZXw5IswwmnUk2zIM4Gewta30Kmn-iE6xm5xNS_MIFPX4iEvsIhWS2BwMc7-nNeHUvQRfhMI0EY-Ywza1ENs/s320/mixed+198.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496634580213004898" /></a><br /><br />Bear Foot prints: <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1mVTAoJkWNKwEVOffOUbMQ0AptiLel6QicMa5H2mbUo7yHsOqRqhW3qYw1eB4JY0LcjMKf6KAxi-SjG3IRXiTXM0IT63EyXcHBq8NmEm6pGt-UCY3k1tcCEHAlRdct6FO643p_0hyphenhyphen2lQ/s1600/mixed+114.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1mVTAoJkWNKwEVOffOUbMQ0AptiLel6QicMa5H2mbUo7yHsOqRqhW3qYw1eB4JY0LcjMKf6KAxi-SjG3IRXiTXM0IT63EyXcHBq8NmEm6pGt-UCY3k1tcCEHAlRdct6FO643p_0hyphenhyphen2lQ/s320/mixed+114.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496634572143053826" /></a><br />We reached camp, freshened up and left. On our way after passing MM Hills we saw a Jackal on the road, trying to cross. But it proved difficult for the fellow as the vehicles were zooming by. <br /><br />This place is home to a variety of flora and fauna as this is a unique habitat. The disturbance seen in this forest is high. I truly wish this place survives as its an important wildlife corridor. <br /><br />A Photo log :-<br /><br />Crimson Tip<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim1kGc47Pd6R6M4Ti_juNw_CjhCO-azAPtFevcFeZn1oRgVS1Mwz4h3h0q9cC51u99jNgSdJ4-2Lh90-aG5k3CNoQcWs6GLpFAuPo1P2K_6Uo5biBhYcilX0K0vR2MOGOyXCBvOQmul9k/s1600/mixed+225.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim1kGc47Pd6R6M4Ti_juNw_CjhCO-azAPtFevcFeZn1oRgVS1Mwz4h3h0q9cC51u99jNgSdJ4-2Lh90-aG5k3CNoQcWs6GLpFAuPo1P2K_6Uo5biBhYcilX0K0vR2MOGOyXCBvOQmul9k/s200/mixed+225.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496637261884719298" /></a><br /><br />Yellow Pansy<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLGEUQtiEm-vtV_KL9XULuX_9_HwyG5Py5OqhKG36t2TDGhxW09WhTnc4MRcdwCSARBs4xh_Rlsp4ChaxyTT0TYP7U0GZqO1GhZiPIdMHzG0huTfN5dxGiMDDPlrOWnqktb7hrUvG7730/s1600/mixed+205.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLGEUQtiEm-vtV_KL9XULuX_9_HwyG5Py5OqhKG36t2TDGhxW09WhTnc4MRcdwCSARBs4xh_Rlsp4ChaxyTT0TYP7U0GZqO1GhZiPIdMHzG0huTfN5dxGiMDDPlrOWnqktb7hrUvG7730/s200/mixed+205.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496637250933239298" /></a><br /><br />Gyrocarpus americanus<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA93mqZXYLARblAgDENkI29btrSDBsI9BUaENvE81nA5PpFr8uDAyoegzGXTS8y4f8eNN6oHIDc-zqET7TteWUpWOu50d_FxUlUda7vB2REUQ4UZy2noiYiuvQ651rWAOCxQJGhZrnEDc/s1600/mixed+118.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA93mqZXYLARblAgDENkI29btrSDBsI9BUaENvE81nA5PpFr8uDAyoegzGXTS8y4f8eNN6oHIDc-zqET7TteWUpWOu50d_FxUlUda7vB2REUQ4UZy2noiYiuvQ651rWAOCxQJGhZrnEDc/s200/mixed+118.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496637245244223954" /></a><br /><br />Mudpuddling: <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZPOM6G2UcEjkUyRgJasIF8XfAT7LbEjBYrJuBMd9aLB_jK5c_VyYSmFFt7CpYGlj_B42jGsLXiUMJYb0yxUqNnvTrrO8T8OIAjFcUhhGP3840-dPbkNMPc80DGAorAXDXiQ2x779bm8/s1600/mixed+176.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZPOM6G2UcEjkUyRgJasIF8XfAT7LbEjBYrJuBMd9aLB_jK5c_VyYSmFFt7CpYGlj_B42jGsLXiUMJYb0yxUqNnvTrrO8T8OIAjFcUhhGP3840-dPbkNMPc80DGAorAXDXiQ2x779bm8/s200/mixed+176.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496637241667967426" /></a><br />This is a social activity where at times several hundred butterflies, especially males of one or more species can be seen on damp sand or mud banks. <br /><br /><br />The forest<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeiwi-FVsjKsvbrym1yYAK4KdXSKXC-A4vpYwkZY4LKoLlP_fsHFPPth9k-NMgmmMtaYuVjblrjfUhGhUo0JicjfoOG_-tyQGcYLDPL736K1MZvVr5PD_r24-ruhXprbhdYLWWQjPUwnc/s1600/mixed+160.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeiwi-FVsjKsvbrym1yYAK4KdXSKXC-A4vpYwkZY4LKoLlP_fsHFPPth9k-NMgmmMtaYuVjblrjfUhGhUo0JicjfoOG_-tyQGcYLDPL736K1MZvVr5PD_r24-ruhXprbhdYLWWQjPUwnc/s200/mixed+160.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496637227445865122" /></a><br /><br />Me<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXp34wZeQ69BJKmtUvykOi8BE5YjiLSPySj-vf6eHl-SOOw6dxspROcV32tBsvR0scJ3Wx65XGNcXVVBftuUBQkIGDa6ylMd4mRe9SQI52ZostY_Z1CmhlqsVtaT6utyt0ePbjypSOF9g/s1600/Gopinatham+Mystry+Trail+077.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXp34wZeQ69BJKmtUvykOi8BE5YjiLSPySj-vf6eHl-SOOw6dxspROcV32tBsvR0scJ3Wx65XGNcXVVBftuUBQkIGDa6ylMd4mRe9SQI52ZostY_Z1CmhlqsVtaT6utyt0ePbjypSOF9g/s200/Gopinatham+Mystry+Trail+077.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496641850153547554" /></a>Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-51285097414417652102010-07-02T03:11:00.000-07:002010-07-02T04:07:38.359-07:00Adventureholic:- Rafting!On one of my trips to Dandeli, we had a day to spare from work. I had always wanted to go rafting and finally my colleagues agreed for it. :) Rafting in Dandeli is organized by Jungle Lodges. So we headed to Jungle lodges from Kulgi. We met Mr. Shashidhar, who took us to the Supa dam, which is an hour’s drive from the Dandeli city. (Here when the water is let out from the dam during the morning and evening rafting is possible.)<br /><br />River Kali (Kalinadi) is a daunting River since its black. The river has its origin at Diggi in the Western Ghats and flows westwards to join the Arabian Sea near the town of Karwar. She is the fastest west flowing river and many dams have been constructed to produce electricity. <br /><br />So as we reach the banks, there’s a briefing on the rules of rafting. We choose our boat a small one since we were 4. (Choose the smaller one as its lighter and you have more fun on the water). We have a guide who goes through the standard procedure of rafting. We have our safety jackets and helmet on. We are excited as ever. Once the rapids start its amazing they v named each rapid point. <br /><br />This place is excellent for birding and a walk along the banks will help you capture some amazing shots of the bird life. All my birding was from the boat. I noted River terns, Darters, Black-capped Kingfisher, Malabar Pied Hornbills, Grey headed Fishing eagle, Brahminy kite and Honey buzzard to name some. <br /><br />The rafting is 9 km long and is exciting. You pass islands and the flora is spectacular. <br />Towards the end they let the rapid water come on you full force:) <br /><br />The whole time you enjoy the adventure. :) <br /><br />A photolog of this amazing experience :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9g5LkDq12qShNwJOAUSRX5v4HhB_ccFCzZr9kCKtsRdPTtPsfXRo0KmXi6Q7oAEFvq0H-jKkHtEJhYHZedS1kQ8OFZlT6oL73w-Ny7uB4xF60QmRKQVQUte_NTqqRQrCNPc6NDRRV3g/s1600/bgs+national+school++7+Christ+college+070.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9g5LkDq12qShNwJOAUSRX5v4HhB_ccFCzZr9kCKtsRdPTtPsfXRo0KmXi6Q7oAEFvq0H-jKkHtEJhYHZedS1kQ8OFZlT6oL73w-Ny7uB4xF60QmRKQVQUte_NTqqRQrCNPc6NDRRV3g/s320/bgs+national+school++7+Christ+college+070.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489262413486810530" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8wkc_hyphenhyphenfHze6mYXb6ZcfYHKJUZqtpmTYKzXB52HPNo13qoZJ3Zq7sdoX8T5qw8aUQe9Xbq2zRa-VTleMsDsTXlDojM3twzNzRFUvEGqLdyTBR-hKsyiN3yGsBJcOcLDZhEJ6loiZG3bU/s1600/bgs+national+school++7+Christ+college+061.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8wkc_hyphenhyphenfHze6mYXb6ZcfYHKJUZqtpmTYKzXB52HPNo13qoZJ3Zq7sdoX8T5qw8aUQe9Xbq2zRa-VTleMsDsTXlDojM3twzNzRFUvEGqLdyTBR-hKsyiN3yGsBJcOcLDZhEJ6loiZG3bU/s320/bgs+national+school++7+Christ+college+061.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489262404485288258" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5G8OUILh-VL_jlnSnSwyRLlTyx7boUjNbZ1ONjRBOQIpEBs-aXXDbaVDyEmtVpjTUzqTwzS9KzS0IXgea8yvuI7OnwkCa1VJ6OIX9qwC-r_BpKFPK1V1NSkgIbVB1iOU-zcL6dRMf-5I/s1600/bgs+national+school++7+Christ+college+062.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5G8OUILh-VL_jlnSnSwyRLlTyx7boUjNbZ1ONjRBOQIpEBs-aXXDbaVDyEmtVpjTUzqTwzS9KzS0IXgea8yvuI7OnwkCa1VJ6OIX9qwC-r_BpKFPK1V1NSkgIbVB1iOU-zcL6dRMf-5I/s320/bgs+national+school++7+Christ+college+062.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489262394530998738" /></a><br /><br />River Kali<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKJT7BZXe6KWPHEToqvnileKaEQePucK9Nbf6RKefEZYcWDUj5AOupIS0Wv7gqziLgeqxBxmzLC9gzoTHBvqHdbYaCXQ-dHTwtXQpbfD5UJmCcnInPpMeQ8i8BBL2onngXLx0IVZ5PdY8/s1600/bgs+national+school++7+Christ+college+029.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKJT7BZXe6KWPHEToqvnileKaEQePucK9Nbf6RKefEZYcWDUj5AOupIS0Wv7gqziLgeqxBxmzLC9gzoTHBvqHdbYaCXQ-dHTwtXQpbfD5UJmCcnInPpMeQ8i8BBL2onngXLx0IVZ5PdY8/s320/bgs+national+school++7+Christ+college+029.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489262384760231090" /></a>Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-80367737742211686382010-06-05T02:04:00.001-07:002010-06-05T02:17:04.237-07:00June 5th- World Environment Day<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg5_ejYnoTT_AhUHIGjLNucBotHNNmpElNAhcQXhjw13J1NqI57ejRDOqwYggBoGPvrA0tHCjnPdsYyp8KSjkNg8FSuEsCMqoNE-B7RmcV_x9YkKnpqa2TjyN9MmTbjg0i57HvQBzDLTY/s1600/biodivposter.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 255px; height: 319px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg5_ejYnoTT_AhUHIGjLNucBotHNNmpElNAhcQXhjw13J1NqI57ejRDOqwYggBoGPvrA0tHCjnPdsYyp8KSjkNg8FSuEsCMqoNE-B7RmcV_x9YkKnpqa2TjyN9MmTbjg0i57HvQBzDLTY/s320/biodivposter.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479213055580825362" /></a><br /><br />June 5th- World Environment Day <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">International Year of Biodiversity 2010</span><br /><br />India, a country occupying only 2.3% of the earth's land surface is recognized as one of seventeen “mega diverse” countries. India is endowed with a rich flora and fauna and areas rich in endemism are north-east India, the Western Ghats and the north-western and eastern Himalayas. <br /><br />Biodiversity is the Variety of life on earth and today we need to make a change so we can have a Healthy future. Securing our forests is only securing a brighter future. <br /><br />Biodiversity: <br />http://www.unep.org/wed/2010/english/PDF/BIODIVERSITY_FACTSHEET.pdf<br /><br /><br />UNEP has and A-Z ON what one can do so click on the link and find out. <br /><br />http://www.unep.org/wed/2010/english/PDF/BIODIVERSITY_FACTSHEET.pdfNatasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-81963947061999827212010-06-02T04:09:00.000-07:002010-06-02T04:09:03.033-07:00Green Diaries!<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/kittytash/GreenDiaries?authkey=Gv1sRgCKmB7reUwtaeCg&feat=blogger" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right;float:right;margin-bottom:1em;margin-left:1em"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZlxjbXeiVCkiXsCSp6PA7VqeqPaShygTaMvTG3UdfBQ8W6CLmyg2wUNpd70gvNEhwyqN_IlhqJ6MxEhPjebqj3P0rC7Hn2YubQfujxhPYCoci0vRy1brXYv0QEpykC53GHneDNyeyc9s/s160-c/GreenDiaries.jpg"></a>Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-62221853296226022972010-06-02T03:20:00.000-07:002010-06-02T03:28:19.495-07:00My World!When i first started blogging i wanted my excitement and love for Wildlife to rub off on people and to also show the beauty of our forests, Flora and Fauna. I've learn't and seen so many things being in a forest and the memories of various instances are still vivid in my mind. Passion is a key factor to be in this field and if you do let yourself submit to nature, she will certainly enthrall you. <br /><br />Conservation includes many aspects and is a long term process. There are different success formulas depending on each situation and this is vital as there can be no hard and fast rule. The cause should be identified at the grassroot level and likewise a solution found. <br /><br />Today the main threat faced by wildlife all over the world is from Habitat Loss and the need is to stem this loss. As individuals we all have a role to play and i believe small efforts do contribute largely. I don't agree its wishful thinking. Today we are aware but the most important question is Are we doing anything about it? <br /><br />Make choices that would certainly help the environment and contribute when you can. Being responsible is important and with today's technology we can.Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-43666370569773037592010-06-02T02:33:00.000-07:002010-06-02T03:19:54.686-07:00Updates!Wildlife Update: <br /><br />A healthy female tigress was found dead. Please read the article below, followed by a report. <br /><br />http://www.ndtv.com/news/india/tigress-dies-in-bandhavgarh-tiger-reserve-26954.php<br /><br />http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/nagpur/Did-Bandhavgarh-tiger-choke-to-death/articleshow/5951666.cms<br /><br /><br />http://moef.nic.in/downloads/public-information/Report_NTCA.pdfNatasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-20582061452640736482010-05-30T22:04:00.000-07:002010-05-30T22:05:01.637-07:00<a href="http://www.panda.org/endangeredspecies?source=banner"><img src="http://assets.panda.org/img/original/468_60_banner_species.jpg" alt="Find out more about endangered species" width="468" height="60" border="0"></a>Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-41236674165941800312010-05-17T23:36:00.000-07:002010-05-25T21:43:07.301-07:00Lets be Responsible TouristsEco tourism is defined as "Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people." (TIES, 1990)<br /><br />But sadly, while traveling into the jungles and trekking through the lovely forests we, tourists are so careless. You will see plastic bags thrown carelessly, empty water(plastic) bottles, wrappers, plates and cups left by tourists spoiling the scenic beauty. We, come for a vacation and leave a large ecological footprint behind. <br /><br />Whats irresponsible is when tourists demand for unreasonable stuff. Being apart of nature camps and volunteering on projects,you come across Tourists with different options. Some want a camp fire and when you say "Sir, please understated this is a Tiger Reserve" , he quickly adds "Oh but you get it in a resort". The others feel they have been cheated that they haven't seen a "Tiger" in a Tiger Reserve.<br />These are well educated people yet so utterly indifferent. <br /><br />This all stems from a lack of responsibly as an individual. As i mention in my earlier post, its high time we act like <span style="font-weight:bold;">Responsible tourists, travelers and buyers.</span> Eco tourism can surely benefit Wildlife and our ecological footprints can be greatly reduced. You can also make sure the Resort you go to is being responsible and Eco friendly. <br /><br />Eco tourism is about uniting conservation, communities, and sustainable travel. <br />On further reading I read this lovely article and a blog post by NCF and it couldn't have been written in a better way. <br /><br />Here's a link to see the article,<br /><br />http://www.deccanherald.com/content/68700/ecotourist-tread-carefully.html<br /><br />Lets act Responsibly and be responsible the next time we venture into the forests.Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-6397732451857205982010-04-19T03:01:00.000-07:002010-04-19T03:06:45.884-07:00A visit to the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary.Trekking in the Western Ghats! <br /><br />The <span style="font-weight:bold;">Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary </span>is located in the Udupi district of Karnataka, Kollur and was established in 1974 covering an area of 247 sq km. The vegetation type is a mix of evergreen, semi-evergreen and moist deciduous forests covering the steep slopes typical of the Western Ghats Mountains. These forests can support a myriad of butterflies due to the varied plant composition and diversity. Hence, this forest comes under the Medicinal Plants Conservation Areas. (Local communities are actively involved in this conservation effort. MPCAs serve as the study sites for conservation biology related research and also the source of authentic and quality planting material for propagation)<br /><br />Longitudes : 13o41'25.87"E to 13o58'51.85"E <br />Latitudes : 74o39'8.68"N to 74o56'8.84"N. <br />Annual rainfall : 4,593 mm <br />Elevation ranges : 9-1,315 m above sea level. <br /><br />The sanctuary receives an annual rainfall of 4,593 mm and the elevation here ranges from 9-1,315 m above sea level. Water sources include the Chakra nadi, Kollur River, 27 perennial streams, 36 large seasonal streams, several smaller streams, two seasonal natural lakes, one spring and 20 artificial water tanks. (Source from Atree’s Website)<br /><br />A wide variety of butterflies, reptiles and birds are found here. My trek through this beautiful forest opened my eyes further on the beauty and endemism of species of flora and fauna seen in this region. I was completely amazed at the beauty of this forest. I trekked a lot in a period of 3 days; a trek to Arshinagundi Falls, A trail specifically for butterflies, a trek into the forests to explore a Nature trail and a trail for Birds. I was amazed at the butterfly and bird life. It’s truly a joy to trek. This place is truly a haven for butterflies and birds. Unfortunately I couldn’t spot any large mammals and the shy Lion Tailed Macaques. Nevertheless I saw some beauties and rare flora. <br /><br /><br />My highlight: I spotted a lovely Ornate flying snake near a stream basking on a tree; 6 m above ground. <br /><br />A photo log of my Experience: <br /><br />Ornate Flying Snake<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDqiBx1NAARK108r8waF37kFk09WuSidjJ-bg9Rbjh9Ntbgz8B_7M5LHFAtqitxuG-9YBWz6p3PVx6wIJDiYkPRqer1H4GXVUQuUErnChvCDqx6lL8wEi5B7itER1swFhm19gZkhmbUCg/s1600/Ornate+Flying+Snake!.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDqiBx1NAARK108r8waF37kFk09WuSidjJ-bg9Rbjh9Ntbgz8B_7M5LHFAtqitxuG-9YBWz6p3PVx6wIJDiYkPRqer1H4GXVUQuUErnChvCDqx6lL8wEi5B7itER1swFhm19gZkhmbUCg/s320/Ornate+Flying+Snake!.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461787206964454098" /></a><br /><br />Commander<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGuQiQyBYoqx2jVeHTn8Vpp9IdfUBpQWLw_R7Mfqsn_D3SU9MiEAmHWV7-lEhBGfWX8Y_oL23FuirdPBfsW_clBB37Ior632cOBzC2DCYxLzYNo8qNX7nI4_-mdBKa3hJaljOP7ESYDYo/s1600/Commander.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGuQiQyBYoqx2jVeHTn8Vpp9IdfUBpQWLw_R7Mfqsn_D3SU9MiEAmHWV7-lEhBGfWX8Y_oL23FuirdPBfsW_clBB37Ior632cOBzC2DCYxLzYNo8qNX7nI4_-mdBKa3hJaljOP7ESYDYo/s320/Commander.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461787395342925090" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Arshinagundi trek</span> <br /><br />The falls: <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7oUaBQUZE2CNDWdqZRWtG__N6YNavS-aWk2bZlz85f2pTLuyEDEWGvrj9azvjxI8ovKgR4WlXKp4FXXcoWvqbmdeh_yfOkvPJ_-yL5EP1yAB1Mn1lhQJFHrrYwUQCv-emnR8t9JFAd5M/s1600/Arshingundi+Trek.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7oUaBQUZE2CNDWdqZRWtG__N6YNavS-aWk2bZlz85f2pTLuyEDEWGvrj9azvjxI8ovKgR4WlXKp4FXXcoWvqbmdeh_yfOkvPJ_-yL5EP1yAB1Mn1lhQJFHrrYwUQCv-emnR8t9JFAd5M/s320/Arshingundi+Trek.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461787825242489170" /></a>Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-79470294785062284012010-03-29T23:29:00.000-07:002010-03-30T00:29:13.716-07:00The Fading Feline!This year so far hasn't been a good year for the Tiger. Even with all the Media coverage and the public outcry, the fact of the matter is how it’s being translated into addressing the ground realities. To a Layman the situation seems simple “Save the Tiger” but they do not realize the complexities involved in Conservation. People rather say presumptuous lines not realizing the situation at the grassroots level. This is what I, personally feel should be addressed. What’s translated on field to address the situation is going to help in saving the last few truly Wild Tigers. <br /><br />To a person driven by the Economy in today’s fast paced world it is rather difficult to understand the Vital role that Nature has, be it the Reptiles, birds or Animals. An insensitive question like why do we even need them arises. This attitude isn’t healthy and is harmful. What Nature does freely; we cannot even think of replacing the small or large processes performed by Nature. Each Individual needs to be Responsible as this is the first step in conserving the wildlife or resources. <br /><br />The Tiger is not only a symbol in Indian Culture but also a part of our History. We need to save this beautiful Feline and we can achieve it by protecting its habitat. In turn the other species in the forest are protected in the Name of the Tiger. India, a country occupying only 2.3% of the earth's land surface is recognized as one of seventeen “mega diverse” countries. Only 5% of our forests are protected and the need of the hour is to stem the loss of Habitat. <br /><br />Tigers are fast Vanishing and the numbers that are accounted for are shocking. So if we imagine the unaccounted ones the numbers are staggering considering the total numbers of tigers left in India. <br /><br />TIGER NEWS: <br /><br />TIGER DEATHS IN 2010<br /> Mortality 5<br /> Poaching & 12<br /> Seizures <br />___________________<br /> Total 17<br /><br />TIGER DEATHS IN 2009<br /> Mortality 53<br /> Poaching & 32 <br /> Seizures<br />___________________<br /> Total 85<br /><br />• http://www.wpsi-india.org/projects/poaching_database.php<br /><br />Tiger died due to strangulation in Corbett Tiger Reserve, 2010. <br /><br />Poisoning of 2 Sub Adult Male Tigers in Ranthambhore: March 2010<br />Do see this blog for the complete story http://ranthambhorediary.blogspot.com/<br /><br />Now is the time we start behaving as responsible buyers, responsible tourists, and responsible individuals converting our voices in to actions.Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-89416978530271709452010-03-16T23:43:00.000-07:002010-03-16T23:44:32.822-07:00A Conservation Event! Tiger Watch<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZvvAWmrn0h_rsl_ozy-zcHAbLmElDEhbkIMuTQPAl1ycyvHOQYoNT5nDYDTwTvT3RqvT1hzhndzCgV3lEnSi6IYHcoAUicFVPBcfUgw7Ts0gX63r2MMKm5nu6aw4qlCNccT2fA7RP2U/s1600-h/Whiskers05-new.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 264px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZvvAWmrn0h_rsl_ozy-zcHAbLmElDEhbkIMuTQPAl1ycyvHOQYoNT5nDYDTwTvT3RqvT1hzhndzCgV3lEnSi6IYHcoAUicFVPBcfUgw7Ts0gX63r2MMKm5nu6aw4qlCNccT2fA7RP2U/s320/Whiskers05-new.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449489992923224674" /></a><br />Whiskers!Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-91041867064835715932010-01-20T23:38:00.000-08:002010-01-28T02:13:07.260-08:00Home!I watched this brilliant Documentary called <span style="font-weight:bold;">Home</span>. This documentary takes you through the evolution of the earth and the changes seen in the landscapes. Breath taking scenery and the simple narration; leaves you with a sense of positivity in protecting the earth. This is a must watch.<br /><br />This is the link to view the documentary.<br />http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqxENMKaeCUNatasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-57775993402911689762010-01-07T02:48:00.000-08:002010-01-07T02:57:18.517-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX244k2yDDh0B7oZolhsUVA5rZY70xJkHCgw8F8oSUMCoCb6h6EKK_mi2bpVjXVX5mEA9teTAAN6IhBewJYcIJ279_rbPwrhx6v47YClo5HJ_wOCXMeuYaDOclL0drbZqf9ZUTd1sIUK8/s1600-h/Bangaluru+Campaign.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 238px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX244k2yDDh0B7oZolhsUVA5rZY70xJkHCgw8F8oSUMCoCb6h6EKK_mi2bpVjXVX5mEA9teTAAN6IhBewJYcIJ279_rbPwrhx6v47YClo5HJ_wOCXMeuYaDOclL0drbZqf9ZUTd1sIUK8/s320/Bangaluru+Campaign.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423948257690848370" /></a><br /><br />Be A part of a Global Initiative to save the Loktak Lake, the life line of Manipur. <br />Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India.It has an area of 300sqkm.Considering the ecological status and its biodiversity values,the lake was designated as a‘wetland of international importance’ under the Ramsar Convention on March23,1990.KeibulLamjao, the only floating national park in the world is situated at the southwest part of the lake.It is home to the endangered Manipur ‘Sangai’-Cervuseldieldi and many plant species.<br /><br />North East Centre for Environmental Education and Research Sagolband Tera AkhamLeikai,Imphal West –795 001, Manipur (INDIA)<br />Email: neceer.imp@gmail.comwww.neceer.orgNatasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-37489599627724843662009-11-30T02:01:00.001-08:002009-11-30T02:11:12.134-08:00Dandeli-Anshi!When ever i visit this place i am always excited and learn or see something new. :)<br /><br /> I saw a beautiful Crocodile lazing on the river. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBvnhQ8yDERdkEOdyl-AbwDkGFA-Jm7wxlWjzUiFyfRAjMM4V-ipxlJ4iylCGTkLTw4ZBTfl6Bcbg0WcrFcrFv18XFwh8v8Sm0oHWBCwK-hitFHfNLvTJMty-95sSbcOArRwPmjF3rRys/s1600/DSC_0209.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBvnhQ8yDERdkEOdyl-AbwDkGFA-Jm7wxlWjzUiFyfRAjMM4V-ipxlJ4iylCGTkLTw4ZBTfl6Bcbg0WcrFcrFv18XFwh8v8Sm0oHWBCwK-hitFHfNLvTJMty-95sSbcOArRwPmjF3rRys/s320/DSC_0209.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409835551757342162" /></a><br /><br />I have always wished to see a Great Pied Hornbill as i'v seen the other tHree I.E, the Malabar Pied, Malabar Grey and The Indian Grey Hornbill. We had got permission to visit Sykes Point In Dandeli. Its a beautiful valley with the kali river gushing in full fury. So we drove up and as we reached I suddenly see GREAT PIED HORNBILLS GLIDING :) as we were on top we had a spectacular view i ended up counting 30 great pied flying one after the other. I got more than i bargained for and was grinning from Ear to ear.<br /><br />A spectacular place offering great sights :)Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-3407665964595620252009-11-15T23:25:00.001-08:002009-11-15T23:25:32.128-08:00Art and Photography for a good cause<a href=http://bangalore.metblogs.com/2009/09/18/art-and-photography-for-a-good-cause/>Art and Photography for a good cause</a><br /><br />Posted using <a href="http://sharethis.com">ShareThis</a>Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-9864582500941394042009-11-11T21:12:00.001-08:002009-11-11T23:40:37.959-08:00Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, M M Hills!The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary is Bordered by the Cauvery river and state of Tamil Nadu on the eastern and northern boundary, the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary formed in 1987 covers an area of 526.96 sq km and spreads over the districts of Mysore, Bangalore and Mandya. This area receives an annual rainfall of 945 mm. The Palar river and several seasonal and perennial streams ensure a sufficient supply of water for this protected area.The vegetation type is dry, deciduous forest.Terminalia arjuna-Tamarindus indica types are seen on the river banks.The Kanipanpura elephant corridor links this protected area with the high density elephant areas like Nagarhole, Bandipur, Wynaad, Mudumalai, as well as the reserve forests of Sathyamangalam and the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary.<br /><br />The trip was exciting as i was traveling to these forests for the very first time.We set off Early morning by bus. The bus was heading to Kollegal. It was a long drive and we switched buses to head to MM Hills. The driver of the bus thought he was driving in a formUla one race.Those roads were so narrow he just whizzed past.We reached MM Hills around afternoon and met The officer who drove us to the camp site.Basic Facilities is what one can expect but the scenery is breathtaking.Since it was cloudy the weather was pleasant and the hills were covered with mist. <br /><br />Mystery Trails is a set of planned eco-treks through the deep jungles of Chamarajanagar range of forests. These eco-treks will be designed to give trekkers a lifetime experience of nature in all its pristine glory. So as we are working on making 3 trails, hence we visited these hills.We drove through the forest and saw lot of quails. I spotted a shikra when we stopped. There's a Memorial dedicated to the late P. Srinivas DCF(IFS)who was murdered by the bandit-Verappan in 1991.It was a coincidence as it was his death anniversary on the day we reached 10/11. There was a function held for him.<br /><br />We saw lots of elephant dung on the path and crossed steams and rugged terrain. It was exciting. We also had a guard to protect us :) Suddenly my colleague spots a rock python and we stop by ,i didn't see it as it moved away. On our way back i saw eyes glisten im pretty sure it was a spotted deer.We saw lots of shrews running about. We reached the camp site and the place was so quite. We had our dinner and headed to bed.<br /><br /> We woke up early and the scenery was breathtaking. The mist on the hills, the refreshing air and the dam (IN FRONT) filled with birds makes it paradise. We head out to trek around the dam which is easily 3 km. We walk along with our guard in case any elephants should chase us. I saw lots of water birds cormorants,Cattle Egrets, Grey Heron,Pied Kingfisher fishing for his meal, ashy wood swallow, spotted dove, Rose ringed Parakeets, Blue Breasted Kingfisher,the noisy Red Wattled lapwing etc.The trek took us through narrow paths and we saw the hoof prints of spotted deer.At the end of the trek there's a small temple dedicated to Lord Muneshwara.<br /><br /> We fresh up and leave for our departure to bang. We get dropped near the border. The Cauvery river is the line that separates Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. We took a coracle boat to reach the other side and there we were in Tamil Nadu :)It was a delight traveling across the river on the tiny boat.People there use this mode of transport as the water is high.We wait for our bus and when it arrives oh god there's a rush, That moment is back to Civilization for me :(<br />On The way back sitting on a bus is tiring and i reached Bangalore early evening. <br /> This place is slowly recovering as poaching was Rampant especially by the Notorious Bandit. It needs to be strictly protected and the steady stream of visitors to the various temples around certainly has a negative impact.<br /><br /> A lovely place and a important corridor for Wildlife, it is truly Paradise.Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-29495999974327888232009-10-29T02:30:00.000-07:002009-10-29T02:36:00.626-07:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo5yMBTs5R_yqOV8bpcxNyrD017vmyi6Ru1mkpceytVzNUO7qcxi1iizAtJs7dxaLXLw5cVx_w3OlShtWRjC601LSIZGo-gzUm50MUHn0cbgruDgonsBI6EBoiYR05SCN2F5gf9dyPoos/s1600-h/DSC_0427.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo5yMBTs5R_yqOV8bpcxNyrD017vmyi6Ru1mkpceytVzNUO7qcxi1iizAtJs7dxaLXLw5cVx_w3OlShtWRjC601LSIZGo-gzUm50MUHn0cbgruDgonsBI6EBoiYR05SCN2F5gf9dyPoos/s320/DSC_0427.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397953235311468162" /></a><br />I compiled it from various sources and found this extremely interesting.<br /><br />Amphibians in Indian culture: <br /><br />In India, frogs were believed to personify thunder. In the Sanskrit language, the word for frog is also the word for cloud.<br /><br />As a part of a centuries-old "Pongal" harvest tradition to "prevent the outbreak of mysterious diseases in the village" a remote village in India Marries young girls to frogs. The ceremony has its roots in the story of the Hindu God Shiva who turned himself into a frog following a quarrel with his wife Parvati. She cried for days causing disease to spread throughout local villages. When the villages asked for help she sent them to find Shiva and plead with him to marry a young girl. She herself posed as the girl, and when Shiva agreed to marry her they returned to their original god forms and the outbreak was cured.<br /><br />The word Salamander means fire lizard when translated from its Greek origin. Linked with fire, Salamanders were thought to be immune to fire and able to put off flames with special secretions from their skin. Collected and burned to ashes salamenders have been used in medicinal purposes. The skins, bodies and body parts of salamanders are used in traditional Asian medicine even today.<br /><br />Newar community in the Bagmathi River Valley of Nepal (an ancient land situated in the southern lap of the central Himalayas) has a strange practice of worshipping a frog. The Jyapu farmers form a majority in the Newar community and are cultivators connected with frog worship since time memorial. The frog worship takes place annually on the full moon day of Shrawan (July) during the rainy season. On the particular day they worship the frogs in their lush green rice fields, with flowers, sandalwood paste, and dry rice and also make an offering of boiled rice plus the soup of nine varieties of legume seeds for their consumption. This religious rite is called Byan Janakegu (Feeding rice to the frog) in the local dialect. The frog is a godling of rain. <br /><br />The Rig-Veda the oldest existing work in Sanskrit, we find a panegyric of the frogs being compared with the Brahmin priests. The hymn is a satire to the Brahmins but an encomium to the frogs. They even believed that frogs were the givers of hundreds of cows to them and also lengthened their life in the rich autumn. <br />The principal of frog worship is the essence of Frog Conservation. <br /><br />The peasants in the Bihar state in India also believe that the crocking of frogs is heard by Indra, the rain god, who sends timely rain. But they do not worship the frogs.Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-71957859461711457582009-10-19T00:14:00.000-07:002009-11-12T03:30:22.374-08:00Dandeli! Wildlife week celebrations.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_vHaHWnIGZbIi_Lf2ldfEIhtzG1J4clwXrJ0IUGGeFvXbHr0PCrMT9swSA5qkNPhhr6QX-ty4p_19XQPaQgD2OMUqVHNo5SPCOiCiyxKGJo0SxFFd24dsofMxzcKYpat-kdPMjX6r-_o/s1600-h/Wildlife+week+2009+313.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_vHaHWnIGZbIi_Lf2ldfEIhtzG1J4clwXrJ0IUGGeFvXbHr0PCrMT9swSA5qkNPhhr6QX-ty4p_19XQPaQgD2OMUqVHNo5SPCOiCiyxKGJo0SxFFd24dsofMxzcKYpat-kdPMjX6r-_o/s320/Wildlife+week+2009+313.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397904787225030898" /></a><br /><br />I keep frequenting this place as my work takes me there. Its always a pleasure being in those jungles. I'm fond of the people and the place :)<br /><br />DANDELI : A wildlife enthusiasts delight. Be it the diversity, the forests or the birds it has lots to offer. I had the opportunity of staying in Kulgi for a week and be apart of the wildlife week celebrations. <br /><span style="font-style:italic;"></span><br /><br />Wildlife Week 2009<br />The 55th wildlife week celebrations in Dandeli Anshi Tiger Reserve, in association with CEE organized a weeklong programme to mark the wildlife week celebrations at Kulgi and Dandeli for various target groups from the 1st to the 7th October 2009. The overall objective of this celebration was to sensitize citizens on the importance of nature and wildlife and a need for its conservation. <br /><br />On the 1 st and 2nd October, the Teachers Training Programme on Nature Education was conducted. 23 teachers from various schools around Dandeli attended the programme. <br />The Wildlife week as well as the teacher's training programme was inaugurated by the chief guest Dr. Sunil Panwar IFS, Deputy Conservator of Forests, wildlife division Dandeli. The programme aims at teaching them about nature and showing interactive ways to educate their children.<br /> I gave a small ppt on reptiles found in Dandeli and Anshi. I spoke about the venomous and non venomous species and also about the myths regarding snakes. The need for conserving them was high lighted.<br /><br />The 3RD of October was for school children around Dandeli. The event was called "GAJARAJA MELA". Painting competitions, activities, street play and essay writing was conducted. A photography exhibition was also held which featured the best of wildlife from professional photographers as well as amateurs. The children got materials on wildlife and nature. Each child was happy and learnt about the wildlife near their homes. <br /><br />4th day: <br /> The event was inaugurated by MR. Sudarshan, Chief Wildlife Warden. <br />Mr. Sudarshan spoke briefly about bird watching, how one should go about it, the ways of identifying birds and their calls. He mentioned the bird books of Dr.Salim Ali and Grimmet and inskipp’s. Dr. Sunil Panwar, Mr. Kumaraswamy, Raghu ( RFO) and other officials were present. <br /> The group included children, college students and families. Different groups were formed and each group had a naturalist to help them identify the birds. <br /> The purpose of this event was to instill the passion for bird watching and need for conserving them. We made groups and i was the head naturalist for my group.<br /><br />The birds seen were lovely species: <br /><br />Malabar Pied Hornbills<br />Malabar Grey Hornbills<br />Scarlet Minivets<br />white bellied woodpecker<br />plum headed parakeets<br />Lesser rAcket tailed Drongos<br />Nuthatches<br />flower peckers<br />Brahminy Kite<br />black drogo<br />spotted dove and alot more.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcZ3Jzit6yBl8cm_3UxO5CzgSvzhtxuu5CYnwB3cCZb02OE36HyuMxUv-OXolB-dO_X3xCTd_MwouX_SIw_gvRMkmApaKz3aDLcTwbImt1WNFRf9j_AhixeRCzl7b4mN8qHpCkIAvX0D4/s1600-h/DSC_0755.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcZ3Jzit6yBl8cm_3UxO5CzgSvzhtxuu5CYnwB3cCZb02OE36HyuMxUv-OXolB-dO_X3xCTd_MwouX_SIw_gvRMkmApaKz3aDLcTwbImt1WNFRf9j_AhixeRCzl7b4mN8qHpCkIAvX0D4/s320/DSC_0755.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397905602275967970" /></a><br />WE also saw a pair of Malabar Giant Squirrels and hanuman langurs. <br /><br />The 5th day had self help groups from around kulgi and Dandeli. These women are important as they are the ones who interact and see wildlife near their homes. The need is to sensitize them on nature and its conservation.Slide shows, documentaries, ppt presentations and talks were part of their programme. Making them aware of their role they play in protecting the forests. <br /><br />The 6 th day was conducted for the rural youths of dandeli. They were enthusiastic and form an important part in conserving our resources. Activities on nature, slide shows on wildlife, documentary screening about climate change and talks were conducted for them. <br /><br />The 7 th day was the last day of the wildlife week. The distribution of prizes was conducted.All the children from their respective schools attended.<br /><br />The STREET PLAY was by a local group who protect the forests.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzODTCQrHjm2K1yrWiC-FA5fMjfubHZEj5i9XTGpDBWb9kzkCe-ejXsuuv1oIxdtL-JPF7AJvSfFObttc2TuWNl6Q_6r_7mkMOH3IFhoJFdDv5STAV9l5JJmuF2NCFQZ4Bj8qp-LOVuGI/s1600-h/Wildlife+week+2009+392.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzODTCQrHjm2K1yrWiC-FA5fMjfubHZEj5i9XTGpDBWb9kzkCe-ejXsuuv1oIxdtL-JPF7AJvSfFObttc2TuWNl6Q_6r_7mkMOH3IFhoJFdDv5STAV9l5JJmuF2NCFQZ4Bj8qp-LOVuGI/s320/Wildlife+week+2009+392.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397906321693896674" /></a><br /><br />SAHYADRI FOUNDATION<br /><br />The street play has a unique way of showing the importance of the forest and wildlife. The play concentrated on poaching of the hornbills, wild boar and tiger, the forest fires, and the ethics to conserve these. <br />They showed the need for conserving the forests and that’s its each ones role in conserving the forests. <br /><br />All in All the whole week went by and it was an amazing experience. It always feels nice when your doing something worthwhile. :)Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-74154307145796125922009-10-13T01:29:00.000-07:002009-10-13T02:16:06.738-07:00Baneraghatta! A little oasis.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JvMDs5USdoI/StRArWZWzXI/AAAAAAAAAIU/Lq88HhN5Hcw/s1600-h/baneraghatta+1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JvMDs5USdoI/StRArWZWzXI/AAAAAAAAAIU/Lq88HhN5Hcw/s320/baneraghatta+1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392005767359810930" /></a><br /><br />Baneraghatta National Park is a Little unknown destination. Located hardly 30 km from Bangalore it harbours wild elephants,leopards, wild dogs, gaurs,barking deer, chitals and numerous small carnivores and bird species. I m not talking about the zoo side at all. The park spans 104 sq. kms which includes ten reserve forests of Anekal Range of the Bangalore Forest Division. It is surrounded by scenic hills, with many ancient temples perched on them.<br /><br />The principal inhabitants of the national park are elephants, which migrate from Kollegal and nearby Tamil Nadu territory, for the major part of the year. The abundant bamboo growth provides fodder for these Gentle Giants.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_JvMDs5USdoI/StQ6660ymUI/AAAAAAAAAIE/E1mFKCa59PU/s1600-h/water.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_JvMDs5USdoI/StQ6660ymUI/AAAAAAAAAIE/E1mFKCa59PU/s320/water.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391999437766826306" /></a><br />I visited this place and was amazed at the beauty. It was shocking to see it so close to Bangalore. My Dear friend had a farm and he invited us to stay. Its a wonderful delight to trek and watch the little green bee eaters sand bathing. :) A wonderful hill gives you a spectacular view of the range of hills and the city (Bangalore). Its amazing how this Oasis exists for the wild animals.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTU4EG9UYURsUd9lytY7auqqp1HYC6M7KYW0jRM95FkQN47xO_YyaaltBqMn_7Hc_PDlg_THEnZpvB1yyjVZa4MLrYCj3YVV80jFdJJL_73ZZSddNHAxY9LBYve7iuQJeBa4t2lHvwa0s/s1600-h/illegal+mining.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTU4EG9UYURsUd9lytY7auqqp1HYC6M7KYW0jRM95FkQN47xO_YyaaltBqMn_7Hc_PDlg_THEnZpvB1yyjVZa4MLrYCj3YVV80jFdJJL_73ZZSddNHAxY9LBYve7iuQJeBa4t2lHvwa0s/s320/illegal+mining.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392010767654694834" /></a>This park has so many pressures on it such as the ever increasing human habitation around, poaching and the illegal mining. This mining is destroying the place. The sound is so loud and deafening. <br /><br />There is no viable corridor for the Elephants and they have to cross the high way to migrate. <br />I sincerely wish that this place survives for these wild creatures.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUErxKzSvTzRwzSIw-v3j1RlhB1s2DqrQA7g8MyTd4_Hoj2RfcTfBnNRfj8Twa7Ebu0B4M5ElqL8so04rsVIpUJKoErWqpcAh42pyR75fJH21y0_ydK5WzZH8HDh5Vp3JmB3rz7BgrKxk/s1600-h/sun+set...jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUErxKzSvTzRwzSIw-v3j1RlhB1s2DqrQA7g8MyTd4_Hoj2RfcTfBnNRfj8Twa7Ebu0B4M5ElqL8so04rsVIpUJKoErWqpcAh42pyR75fJH21y0_ydK5WzZH8HDh5Vp3JmB3rz7BgrKxk/s320/sun+set...jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392007596024512754" /></a><br /><br />The sunset!<br /><br />My Next trip to Baneraghatta was with a group of Wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists. We camped at GeeD. We sat up and enjoyed each others company and also brought in a friends birthday.Tha cake shape: A gps unit:)<br />We trekked up to dodda beta that evening and watched the view.<br />Next morning we went on a coracle boat ride on a lake near the farm. It was fun :) <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWYi5SukxR2CzOWSDgbKKCI1LUS0dSyESebQv2m4KAt10GNgzN1R0JbAAC8W4q0TYXWindz7P1_PTKkH7jkDQ0630O_miz683cx4Xxhj8dJswcFsfJgpCSS-wEWAP2DVUBaIBihsDGZ_0/s1600-h/Picture+009.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWYi5SukxR2CzOWSDgbKKCI1LUS0dSyESebQv2m4KAt10GNgzN1R0JbAAC8W4q0TYXWindz7P1_PTKkH7jkDQ0630O_miz683cx4Xxhj8dJswcFsfJgpCSS-wEWAP2DVUBaIBihsDGZ_0/s200/Picture+009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392009512114701858" /></a>Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-77610876246754785732009-09-28T23:27:00.000-07:002009-09-28T23:35:10.621-07:00FERA- CATS, CROCS, CONSERVATION OCT-2009<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_5A-8CqGK6KY30mWSV_wchn1i2g5VLCMm2xWhwYV0WRe52FUPKm8E34krZpLrScRQOcx-_fvuMDdIQM1UuTmOKx9JWwZ92IZ1BcGgnpp_CJr2wXKdA2a_0MQzYOfYwntPoDT51SDyEmo/s1600-h/fera.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 114px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_5A-8CqGK6KY30mWSV_wchn1i2g5VLCMm2xWhwYV0WRe52FUPKm8E34krZpLrScRQOcx-_fvuMDdIQM1UuTmOKx9JWwZ92IZ1BcGgnpp_CJr2wXKdA2a_0MQzYOfYwntPoDT51SDyEmo/s320/fera.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386774183433605394" /></a><br />AN ART ,PHOTOGRAPHY AND TRIBAL HANDICRAFTS EXHIBITION AND SALE.<br /><br />1 ST - 7 TH october 2009<br />Time: 10.00 am to 7 pm. <br />vEnue; ALLIANCE FRANCAISE<br />VASANTHANAGAR, KARNATAKA- 52.<br /><br /><br />http://feratw.blogspot.com/2009/09/chief-guest-for-fera-2009.htmlNatasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8253281120684292939.post-4991231017312452782009-09-28T22:18:00.000-07:002009-10-29T02:27:54.952-07:00OOTY!! A LOVELY VACATION<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijp-_oQC7vqPSugaDvNWJTwXT2EunNOh9sSfZWU4fw_rRZYqSV53ZgdC6jQgfd94ilf6nEzdydrvA7K9I26xSyrbgNafwT4CYwcZ4Ib1AmJcYE42wc-soO7phAuIioaTZ1itPKR1VkHzM/s1600-h/DSC_0064.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijp-_oQC7vqPSugaDvNWJTwXT2EunNOh9sSfZWU4fw_rRZYqSV53ZgdC6jQgfd94ilf6nEzdydrvA7K9I26xSyrbgNafwT4CYwcZ4Ib1AmJcYE42wc-soO7phAuIioaTZ1itPKR1VkHzM/s400/DSC_0064.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397949888674436402" /></a><br /><br />A lovely vacation in the Hills. I had been up to Ooty with my family. This is one of my many trips up to Ooty. Ooty is also known as Udhagamandalam, the "Queen of hill stations" and the capital of the Nilgiris district. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Nilgiri's means "Blue Mountains". It is one of the most beautiful hills in India. <br /> We drove up to Ooty and passed the bandipur-mudumalai forests. We didn't get to see much wildlife. The drive up was wonderful we felt the cold breeze on our faces, the smell of eucalyptus, and the inviting scenery to keep treasured in our mind frame. We stayed at LOvedale, a lovely bungalow. The house is a pleasant sight with the drive way , the lovely flowers which added colour to the bungalow.It was freezing so we cuddled up near the heater and had a hot dinner and slept.<br /> The next morning was pleasant and we played some football. We headed to Ooty and looked about. Its not Very pleasant when its over crowded. We had lunch in the Chinese restaurant and then the skies opened up and it poured. We went on a small drive towards Cunoor. The landscape is picturesque.We headed back and played a few games of cards and cooked hot soup. <br /> We headed to Masinagudi in the morning as a friend had a quiet place in the mudumalai forest side.The house was small and you can see some great sightings of wildlife in the evenings. The place is lovely with the stream flowing near by. We stayed there all day and headed to Bangalore early evening. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJbA6F0r97mdv51UHC4X4BFKCbnKItG3peozWnwNtYTBi0D0G8FjAVxRbxZdqta4d2e4Ke4UJeX-C5ysTJ7kFqjs3Hmhw3iD5z0ez9iB2SlTBbxR1VZGiAgM5nPXX-uRThkX1B-HXe8xI/s1600-h/DSC_0133.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJbA6F0r97mdv51UHC4X4BFKCbnKItG3peozWnwNtYTBi0D0G8FjAVxRbxZdqta4d2e4Ke4UJeX-C5ysTJ7kFqjs3Hmhw3iD5z0ez9iB2SlTBbxR1VZGiAgM5nPXX-uRThkX1B-HXe8xI/s320/DSC_0133.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397950357756218738" /></a><br /> <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Sb2Np9jhpdeMh__nNROodTnHdPKJakl736rXOTfmBUbYUup7F3roMeh3dmxe89tBqOa0okgAdxWlpVOwEZOuVBa1st39EMPiCMjTNf9y29qL0Hi9ToOlxqyB2AB9yRDd9W_BDSUmfak/s1600-h/CSC_0390.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Sb2Np9jhpdeMh__nNROodTnHdPKJakl736rXOTfmBUbYUup7F3roMeh3dmxe89tBqOa0okgAdxWlpVOwEZOuVBa1st39EMPiCMjTNf9y29qL0Hi9ToOlxqyB2AB9yRDd9W_BDSUmfak/s320/CSC_0390.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397950882969429826" /></a><br />On our way back i was horrified to see a group of men getting out from their car and feeding the langurs. These are wild and they seemed so tamed. The constant stream of travelers encouraging these once shy creatures has made them lazy and over friendly. Another jeep with a bunch of people see this and stop to get out. I felt so Irritated. Coming from the other side was a lorry and these langurs didn't run away. I was worried about their long tails getting run over. It is so saddening to see this as it is only bringing dangers to these lovely creatures. I stopped and told them to respect wildlife but it doesn't really help. We moved on and i also saw cars stop and people getting out to take pictures in the forest , sometimes a board near by them saying Respect wildlife or Do not stop your vehicles. I have a picture which says it all. Photograph does speak a million words silently. <br />Another thing Id like to add is the traffic is terrible and there are traffic jams in the sanctuary. This is so as the roads are closed in the evenings till 6.00 am. When these gates are opened all the vehicles enter creating a havoc. <br />I HONESTLY hope it works out for wildlife. This is one of my favorite sanctuaries and there are so many pressures on it. We need to conserve as its also a Biodiversity Hot-Spot.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkazuUGSOxzbTtWicuJaAidB74p05zGNCJy_rce4O2YQ8xOd6-RA4UtMnX1GiRGNGLHaax2o3b9uAtjDudmXPx0ixAiEcyUAaR9VbelLe-D1q2RYU2cn3VXts58cXzoIfxJvCk-dqFbjg/s1600-h/DSC_0220.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkazuUGSOxzbTtWicuJaAidB74p05zGNCJy_rce4O2YQ8xOd6-RA4UtMnX1GiRGNGLHaax2o3b9uAtjDudmXPx0ixAiEcyUAaR9VbelLe-D1q2RYU2cn3VXts58cXzoIfxJvCk-dqFbjg/s400/DSC_0220.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397949288775401794" /></a>Natasha Ballalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09063258023975102140noreply@blogger.com0