KALI TIGER RESERVE CAMP

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Kali Tiger reserve camp 14-16th Oct 21

Lets feel the greens and smell the wild……
“ Where ever I go Nature is one stranger that makes me feel at home”

The transformation from deciduous forests of Bandipur to the evergreen forests of Kali Tiger Reserve in the deep jungles of western ghats in north-west Karnataka was a perfect setting for our Three days camp for families and students.
My excitement was doubled with the news of my mentor joining me for the camp. Mr. Suhas Kumar (retired PCCF of Madhya Pradesh Forest Department). Sir has been my role model and childhood hero. His in-depth knowledge and passion for wildlife is seen in his enthusiasm to be in forests all the time and shows how he has dedicated his life in conserving our precious forests.
The Nature camp of Kulgi was to become our home for next three days was located in the midst of high hills, breath taking valley views covered with clouds most of the time.

On reaching the camp early morning, seeing the beautiful camp site and the refreshing weather we forgot the tiredness of the journey. Soon after, we went for our first birding trail and were lucky to sight the pride of Kali, the Great Hornbill. That set the pace for the day. The birding was amazing but the insect, fungi and tree observation in the Timber yard were adventurous and explorative. The collection of spiders this place has amazed the students.

The unexpected heavy rains on the safari ruined the hopes of any sightings except the joy of enjoying the pristine forests, but the spotting of fresh tiger pug marks kept us rejuvenated and alert till the end.

A visit to the Honeybee farm in the evening was an eyeopener for many where we got first hand information on the importance of honey bees for our ecosystem as pollinators and about bee farming.

Next day we went to Dandeli timber yard for a trail as it is famous for spotting many birds including all four hornbills- The Great hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Grey hornbill and Indian Grey hornbill.
Apart from these there are over 150 varieties of birds to be spotted in this campus. We could spot many warblers, Common yellow tit, Verditor flycatcher, variety of woodpeckers, Orange minivets, Bee Eaters and amazing butterflies.

On the last day we went for a long trek in Anshi evergreen forest. These forests have always been my favourite for birding and butterfly observations. Everyone also got their first taste of Leech bites.
No visit to Dandeli is complete without adrenalin filled River Rafting in the Kali river rapids and some water sports.
The camp ended high on energy, recharging our minds and soothing our souls!!!