On 18th February Form -3,
with members of ‘Swechha foundation’ were
out to explore Asola Wildlife sanctuary. The purpose was to inquire further
about concepts of habitat, ecosystem, adaptation, survival and interdependence.
The young walkers of Form -3 were comfortably attired with fully covered track
pants and hoodies. All were curious, excited and some even worried of what
dangerous animals they might encounter.
The forest trail was really an enjoyable
experience. As groups started trotting they discovered new things about variety
of species and their interdependence. During the walk students spotted species of birds and plants. Termite
mounds and ant hills were observed with great interest. Blue bulls of all sizes
were spotted. Importance of native species like Amaltash, and morning glory was
attentively heard by all. Keekar a tree often seen in and around Delhi was
actually an imported species and why it thrived in the region was discussed.
Our tour leader also shared adaptive features of cactus plants, and variety of
snakes and nocturnal animals in the forest. Students were constantly encouraged
to identify relationships between various species found in the area. Viewing
carcass of a dead wolf at close quarters was exciting and lead to examining the
role of decomposers and scavengers in the ecosystem. The forest walk helped
bring out negative and
positive relationships existing in the ecosystem. The thought of discovering and exploring
through the forest trail motivated students to listen to the guide and observe
the forest with curious minds.
Many students expressed the
desire to continue the walk and come back again to spend more time. Even though
they did not encounter wild animals that they thought of, students surely found
the forest walk an exciting experience.
