The Campus Bird Count 2026 is a one-day birdwatching and citizen science initiative aimed at promoting awareness and appreciation of local avian biodiversity. Organized by Avian Allies, this event forms part of the globally recognized Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC), which encourages individuals and communities to document bird species and contribute valuable data for scientific research and conservation efforts.
The event will be held on 15th February 2026 and will be guided by Mr. Hrishikesh Bidwe, an experienced naturalist and birding enthusiast. The session is open to all students, faculty members, staff, and bird enthusiasts from across Maharashtra, fostering inclusive participation and shared learning. 
Participants will engage in a guided nature walk across the university campus, observing birds in their natural habitats and learning about their behavior, migration patterns, and ecological significance. Through hands-on experience, participants will be introduced to basic bird identification techniques and the use of the eBird mobile application for data recording and submission.
The event emphasizes the importance of citizen science in environmental conservation. By contributing accurate observations, participants play an active role in building reliable biodiversity databases that support research, policy-making, and habitat preservation. The initiative also encourages environmental responsibility and strengthens the connection between individuals and nature.
In addition to scientific learning, the Campus Bird Count promotes mindfulness, patience, and ecological sensitivity. Spending time in natural surroundings enhances emotional well-being while nurturing respect for wildlife and sustainable practices. The interactive and experiential format of the event makes learning engaging, reflective, and impactful.
Through “Campus Bird Count 2026: From Data to Deliberation,” Avian Allies seeks to cultivate long-term interest in birdwatching and conservation among the campus community. The event serves as a platform for dialogue, observation, and responsible environmental action, reinforcing the university’s commitment to sustainability and experiential education.