Shola forests and black wattle of Avalanche

Aradu kuttan

We (Me and Kuttannan) went to Avalanche in November for a short filming. Avalanche named after an `avalanche’- a landslide, in 1823. We stayed in a Avalanche mund (toda village). It was a nice stay every morning I saw Nilgiri laughing thrushes coming through bushes and laughed at me (they came very close that I could not film them!). Grasses were carrying water droplets, waiting just to be absorbed by sun.
Our friends have got lots of buffalos, the famous and scared, toda buffalos. Every day I saw buffalos leaving mund by 06.30 hrs to graze in the hill slopes, and they came back themselves by evening. Evening sunlight filtering through buffalos' white (toda buffalos are not black) crest hair was a different view of sunset for me. Toda houses' roof was thatched with grass (I ve posted one photo of a toda temple in one of the previous posts). Relationship with forest is starts when a child is born, it follows in marriage and death in toda.

Black wattle in flowering 

One of the elders in the village mantioned that Avalanche was full of shola trees, rhododendrons, orchids, epiphytes and small wetlands. Rattan, a plant group belongs to palm was abundent in the near by sholas, which they used to construct temples. But now due to the invasion of Black wattle they have to go to the distant forests.

Black wattle

Black wattle Acacia mearnsii (a fast-growing leguminous tree native to Australia) had reached almost everywhere. Kuttan is a nursery expert and he says that the germination rate of Black. The invasiveness of this tree species is due to its ability to produce large numbers of long-lived seeds and the development of a large crown which shades other vegetation. Acacia mearnsii competes with and replaces most of the indigenous vegetation.

Tired Bees Make Poor Dancers

We all struggle to communicate after a sleepless night, let alone pull off our best dance moves, and it seems that honeybees are no different.

Read more about bees' struggle from this link:-

http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=tired-bees-make-poor-dancers

Grass lands

We were trying to shoot grass with lots dew (I would call paradigms of sun) in the higher regions of Nilgiris. I tried to recall my memories about grass harvesting paddy, climbing a bamboo ladder, smell of extracting lemon grass oil and lot (don't know names) and decided to find little more about grass and grasslands.

Grasslands go by many names. In the southern part of India, they are known as Pul veli (Tamil), Pul hiro (Toda), Pul medu (Malayalam) and Ullu matta (Baduga)... In the U.S. Midwest, they're known as prairies. In South America, they're called pampas. Central Eurasian grasslands are referred to as steppes, while in Africa they're named savannas.

What they all have in common is grass as their naturally dominant vegetation. 

This miraculous plant covers a quarter of all the land of the earth, Grass lands exists where ever there is a little rain but not enough to sustain a forest.

When rainy season arrives, our grasslands become coated with flowers, some of which can survive well into winter with the help of underground storage organs and thick stem bases.

Grasslands are of vital importance for raising livestock for human consumption and for milk and other dairy products. My old house's roof was covered with grass, now some of the Toda houses' and all the Toda temples' roofing is done with grass (a special grass!).

Tropical cyclone names

Met Office

During the Second World War names were used by USA Air Force and Navy meteorologists monitoring Pacific tropical storms. By the mid-1960s names were used for all tropical storms except those in the North Indian Ocean. The names currently in use and those to be used in future years are listed below. Various meteorological organisations have responsibility for names and employ different conventions.

Northern hemisphere index

• Western north Pacific - West of 180 °E
• Philippines - 5-25 °N 115-135 °E
• Central North Pacific - 140-180 °W
• Eastern North Pacific - East of 140 °W
• Atlantic
• North Indian

Credits to Metoffice.UK, if you are more interested please visit their website:
http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/tropicalcyclone/names.html

Jal Bearing Down on Southeastern India

Tropical Cyclone Jal is bearing down on southeastern India, endangering residents and visitors over the next day or two as it spreads flooding rainfall and damaging winds across the region. The intensity of Tropical Cyclone Jal is currently the equivalent to that of a tropical storm with sustained winds near 60 mph. Landfall will be near the state border between Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. AccuWeather.com International Expert Meteorologist Jim Andrews warned this past Thursday that "the city of Chennai could be hit directly." Jal will come onshore with flooding rain and damaging winds. An inundating storm surge will also pose a serious danger. Locations along the immediate coastline in the path of Jal have already received heavy rainfall, with more on the way. Resultant flooding will be the biggest impact of Jal. More than 25 people have already died due to flooding from downpours ahead of Jal's landfall, and more than 70,000 people have been evacuated from their homes. The harvesting of crops has been affected by Jal with more than 300,000 acres of cropland being doused by heavy rain. After making landfall, Jal will continue to track into the interior of south-central India Sunday night. The higher terrain of this region will cause Jal to weaken in terms of its damaging winds. Heavy rain triggering flooding and mudslides will remain a concern.

-By Kristina Pydynowski, Senior Meteorologist
 Nov 7, 2010; 10:30 AM ET


 Content contributed by Eric Leister and Meghan Evans, meteorologists

Satellite Image of India on Sunday (Courtesy of India Meteorological Department)

Read more about tropical cyclone formation from: http://www.hurricanezone.net/articles/tropicalcycloneformation.html

Neighborhood Geography with Young Children

“Where’s my new preschool?” “What does ‘prairie’ mean?” Children’s natural curiosity about places is the basis for learning about geography. The Illinois Early Learning Standards call for children to express beginning geographic thinking and to locate objects and places in familiar environments. These tips can help children in your program meet these benchmarks!

Lots of educational materials can be found from the following website:-

Illinois State Board of Education
http://illinoisearlylearning.org/cgi-bin/iel/searchiel.asp

Common blue bottle

Sitting by a forest stream can't be compared with anything.
We can put small pebbles in the water and see how many droplets go up,
How many jumps one stone can do once its free from our hands,
Make models of our dream,
Can draw anything with fine sand on the banks of a river,

We can swim,
You can drink(if you trust others) water while swimming or
Sit and move our eyes as the ripples come and go...
The river has a beginning, an end, it always lives in the present, it has a variety of characteristics and indeed a sense or purpose too. From looking at the river from the perspective of its characteristics we find it has a particular chemical composition, it has an origin, it houses lot of aquatic composition, and plants, the water is used for a wide variety of purpose and the like. If the river is unaware of its variety of characteristics, it becomes ignorant and simply flows off.
I was sitting by a forest stream in western slopes of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve) looking around to do what next? (no I was trying to find my own identity(!!!) like our river flowing without the true knowledge of its own identity will surely reach the sea) Graphium sarpedon, the common bluebottle is a species of swallowtail butterfly came here to see what aquatic composition this river has got to attract female butterflies to him.  Another stakeholder of the river.

I will do anything for ----

I pulled out basic information of why this butterfly is visiting riverbank. 'His' visit is called mud-puddling- it is the phenomenon mostly seen in butterflies and involves their aggregation on substrates like wet soil, dung and carrion to obtain nutrients such as salts and amino acids. Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) are diverse in their strategies to gather liquid nutrients. Typically, mud-puddling behavior takes place on wet soil. But even sweat on human skin may be attractive to butterflies.This behaviour is restricted to males in many species. Males seem to benefit from the sodium uptake through mud-puddling behaviour with an increase in reproductive success. The collected sodium and amino acids are often transferred to the female with the spermatophore during mating as a nuptial gift. This nutrition also enhances the survival rate of the eggs.

a tree..

cycas circinalis

“The tree which moves some to tears of joy is in the eyes of others only a green thing that stands in the way.  Some see Nature all ridicule and deformity, and some scarce see nature at all.  But to the eyes of the man of imagination, nature is imagination itself”

-  William Blake, 1799, The Letters

Remote sensing

We were talking about Geography, Maps and remote sensing in a Govt. Tribal Residential School where Keystone Foundation is having Conservation Education Programs.
Suddenly when we talked about remote sensing the situation became very perplexed (one of my ability)!!
We did not carry our computer, set of maps, globe nothing, there was there to help :(

By the time our audience became very curious (which was rarely seen) to know what is this 'remote sensing'
We were looking around to find a way to explain how to address their wounder...
looking around and round we saw a small hill behind the school, asked teacher can we take children for 2 hours to that hill!!!!(teacher's expression)
It hardly took for us to climb 1000 meters. Most of them were barefoot ecologists, we were carrying no water no snacks, one camera, one binocular, note books, sketch pens and pencils and an interest to know 'remote sensing'
This is what had happened after the trek... 

Seeing school from hilltop

Sobha (barefoot cartographer) is drawing map

Geddesal school through my camera

Geddesal school through Sobha's eyes- 'Remote sensing'!(red rectangular shapes are school buildings, green rectangulars are paddy fields, mushroom shaped greens are eucalyptus plantation..

inviting bees

inviting bees...

As a part of the conservation education program in the Nilgiris, Keystone Foundation have few nurseries of forest plants. Geddesal Govt.Tribal Residential School has one of such nurseries. Last week we had a drawing session on 'conservation activities in your school'...
One of the students Ajith came with a picture, which shows the topography of the area, what they do in restoration and the expected result or the dream!!

A tribal village in Kerala won Conservation Award 2010

Bridge to Kumpalappara

Barefoot ecologist from Kumpalappara village

Keystone Foundation has established an annual Village Conservation Award to recognize and support exemplary conservation efforts undertaken by adivasi villages within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The award carries a substantial prize of ₹1 lakh as the first prize and ₹50,000 as the consolation prize, which can be utilized for the village's betterment. The award funds are specifically intended for constructing eco-friendly structures and must not be used for personal gain.

To ensure the award's impact, applications must provide quantitative and qualitative evidence demonstrating the number of individuals benefiting from or utilizing the initiative, as well as the extent of restored habitats or landscapes.

Kumpalappara, a village from the Nilambur region of Kerala, submitted an application highlighting their commitment to eco-friendly living. Situated three kilometers inside the forest from the forest boundary, this village comprises thirteen Kaatunaicka families who depend on the forest for their livelihood. They have no ration cards, electricity, public water supply (although there is a beautiful stream), wells, concrete houses, livestock beyond a couple of dogs, gas connections (they collect firewood for cooking and to keep elephants at bay), or libraries. Despite these modest means, the village boasts a peripatetic school, demonstrating their dedication to education.

Kumpalappara's submission emphasized their efforts to conserve the environment and their traditional practices. They explained how they collect only the resources they need, ensuring the sustainability of the forest. They also shared their knowledge of medicinal plants and their commitment to preserving the biodiversity of the region.

The jury was deeply impressed by Kumpalappara's commitment to eco-friendly living and their unwavering respect for the environment. The village's presentation effectively conveyed their genuine desire to protect their natural heritage and enhance their community's well-being.

A Sea of Clouds

Nilgiri eastern slopes

A Sea of Clouds: Unveiling the Mysteries of Cloud Formation and Movement

While returning from Sathyamangalam, I encountered a breathtaking sight – a vast expanse of clouds stretching across the valley below. This encounter ignited my curiosity about the formation and movement of clouds, leading me to explore the fascinating mechanisms behind these atmospheric wonders.

Clouds are formed when water vapor, invisible gas produced by evaporation from oceans, lakes, and other bodies of water, cools and condenses into tiny water droplets or ice crystals. This process occurs when warm, moist air rises and encounters cooler temperatures at higher altitudes. The expansion of the air causes the water vapor to lose its energy and condense onto tiny particles, such as dust or salt, forming cloud droplets or ice crystals.

The movement of clouds is governed by the Earth's prevailing winds, which are driven by differences in air pressure. Warm air rises, creating low-pressure areas, while cooler air sinks, causing high-pressure areas. As clouds drift along with the winds, they encounter varying air temperatures and moisture levels, leading to changes in their shape, size, and density.

The presence of abundant water vapor in clouds is a crucial indicator of the potential for precipitation. As cloud droplets or ice crystals accumulate, they grow heavier and eventually fall as rain, snow, sleet, or hail. The amount of precipitation depends on the temperature and humidity of the air, as well as the altitude at which the clouds form.

Ocean heat energy plays a pivotal role in regulating atmospheric circulation and influencing weather patterns. Warmer oceans provide a steady source of moisture, fueling cloud formation and generating precipitation. This interplay between ocean temperatures and cloud dynamics is essential for maintaining the delicate balance of our planet's climate.

(http://www.teachersdomain.org/asset/ean08_int_seasurface)

The Enchanting Foxtail Orchid in Appankappu

Nestled amidst the verdant slopes of the Western Ghats, the enchanting Foxtail Orchid (Rhynchostylis retusa) emerges as a true spectacle of monsoon beauty. This vibrant epiphytic orchid, with its cascading clusters of delicate pink and white blooms, adorns the Appankappu Village Conservation Center, a haven for biodiversity in the Nigiri Biosphere Reserve.

The Foxtail Orchid's striking appearance and captivating fragrance have earned it a special place in Indian culture. It is not only revered as the state flower of both Arunachal Pradesh and Assam but also holds significance in Assamese folk traditions. During the Bihu festival, a vibrant celebration of life and harvest, young women adorn their hair with strands of these orchids, adding a touch of elegance and symbolism to their traditional attire.

http://photos.ibibo.com/photo/6117720/assam-bihudance-photography-india-culture

As the monsoon rains nourish the land and awaken the dormant flora, the Foxtail Orchid emerges as a beacon of beauty, captivating the hearts of nature enthusiasts and adding to the rich tapestry of the Western Ghats.

Unveiling the Marvel of Apis florea

While accompanying the village elder of Punanjanur on a nature walk, we stumbled upon an extraordinary sight – a colony of Apis florea, a diminutive yet resilient species of wild honey bee, clinging precariously to a tiny twig. These tiny creatures, native to southern and southeastern Asia, construct their nests from a single comb, the upper portion of which expands into a crest, forming a natural honey pot.

Masamma, a barefoot ecologist and esteemed elder from the village, guides countless children (and me) through the wonders of the forest, sharing her profound knowledge and deep connection with nature. For many years, she has educated and sustainably harvested wild honey and medicinal plants, utilizing their gifts for the well-being of her community.

A Symbiotic Symphony: Ants and Lycaenid Larvae in a Dance of Mutualism

As a research assistant for the "bee biodiversity and forest livelihood" project supported by Darwin initiative, I was fortunate to witness an extraordinary interaction between two seemingly disparate creatures – ants and lycaenid larvae. While conducting fieldwork at a Cycas circinalis, I noticed a peculiar behavior: larvae of a particular insect seemed to be engaging in a complex exchange with ants. Intrigued by this spectacle, I embarked on a journey to uncover the secrets behind this intriguing relationship.

My research revealed that these lycaenid larvae, members of a diverse butterfly family, have evolved an intricate symbiotic partnership with ants. Unlike their solitary counterparts, these larvae have developed a remarkable ability to communicate with ants, using a combination of vibrations transmitted through the substrate and chemical signals.

The ants, in turn, provide these larvae with a level of protection against predators and parasites. In exchange, the larvae offer the ants a sweet reward – a substance called honeydew, excreted by the larvae' digestive system. This sugary treat serves as an important source of energy for the ants, supplementing their diet of nectar and insects.

This fascinating relationship exemplifies the concept of symbiosis, a mutually beneficial interaction between two different species. Both ants and lycaenid larvae benefit from their association, highlighting the intricate web of interconnectedness that sustains life in our ecosystems. More pictures in the article.

Peach tree

A Peach Tree in the Campus

Can you imagine how captivating it must have been to witness the sight of peach tree blossoms in person for the first time? The delicate pink petals, the gentle fragrance, and the overall aura of serenity must have been truly remarkable. It's no wonder that peach blossoms have long been admired for their beauty and symbolic significance in various cultures, including Japan and China.

The peach tree (Prunus persica) is a beloved fruit tree native to China, widely cultivated for its delectable peaches. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Chinese writings dating to the 10th century BC, where it was revered as a royal delicacy. Archaeological evidence suggests that peach cultivation in China began around 1100 B.C., and from there, the peach spread to India and Western Asia.

Beyond its culinary appeal, the peach holds immense symbolic significance in Chinese culture. It is deeply intertwined with the concept of longevity and immortality. In the legend of Zhang Daoling, the founder of Taoism, peaches were said to bestow eternal life upon those who consumed them. Elder Zhang Guo, one of the Eight Immortals of Chinese mythology, is often depicted carrying a Peach of Immortality.

The peach's symbolic power also extends to its blossom, which emerges before any leaves appear, symbolizing its vitality and resilience. In early imperial China, peach branches were carried by sorcerers as protection against evil spirits, while local magistrates would adorn their doors with peach wood branches on New Year's Eve to ward off negative influences.

The peach tree's presence on a campus or any other setting serves as a reminder of the tree's rich cultural heritage and its symbolic associations with long life, vitality, and protection. It is a testament to the enduring connection between humans and nature, and a symbol of hope for a prosperous future.

Conservation Education Network

CONSERVATION EDUCATION NETWORK Third Annual Retreat, Kotagiri, Nilgiris.

Building a Network of Conservation Educators

In 2008, ATREE took the initiative to establish a network of conservation educators, bringing together individuals and organizations from across India dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and action. The group's primary goals are to:

Share ideas, resources, and experiences

Foster collaboration and support among like-minded individuals

Advocate for conservation education initiatives

The network's first meeting took place in 2008 at Navadarshanam Trust in Ganganahally hamlet, Gumalapuram Village, Krishnagiri District, Tamil Nadu. Subsequent retreats have been held in Auroville (2009) and Keystone Foundation (2010).

Keystone Foundation Retreat: A Deep Dive into Conservation

The third retreat of the Conservation Network, held at Keystone Foundation from October 20-22, 2010, provided a rich learning experience for participants. Pratim Roy, Director of Keystone Foundation, gave an insightful overview of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (NBR) and the organization's work.

Robert Leo, Programme Coordinator at Keystone Foundation, presented a captivating PowerPoint presentation titled "Bee Buzz – Life and Times of the Honey Bee." Participants were fascinated by the intricacies of honey bee ecology and their crucial role in the environment.

A highlight of the retreat was the meeting with the Barefoot Communicators, indigenous elders who share their knowledge of the forest with children. Their passion and dedication to conservation provided valuable insights into effective communication strategies.

Nimesh from Samrakshan Mizoram led a discussion on tailoring communication strategies to suit different target audiences and situations, further enhancing participants' understanding of effective outreach.

The visit to the Bee Museum in Ooty provided a fascinating glimpse into the intricate web of relationships within the ecosystem. Participants gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of even seemingly insignificant creatures like honey bees in human existence.

A Closing Dialogue with Dr. A.R. Vasavi

The retreat concluded with a thought-provoking presentation and interaction with Dr. A.R. Vasavi, a renowned scholar from the National Institute of Advanced Studies in Bangalore. Dr. Vasavi's talk focused on the interlinks between conservation, education, and the rural context, leaving participants with a renewed sense of the transformative potential of conservation education.

To commemorate the retreat, participants engaged in Ajilebottu painting on bags and enjoyed a lively arakol dance, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.

The Conservation Network continues to thrive, bringing together passionate individuals and organizations working towards a more sustainable and harmonious relationship between humans and the environment.