Recently, during the Campus Bird Count project of WWF, I conducted bird counts at different campuses. During this time, an idea came to my mind that bird-watching centers should be added to Google Maps in the places where birds are commonly found. Additionally, photographs of the birds found at those locations along with their names should be included.
This initiative would be beneficial for those interested in bird watching worldwide. It would also serve as a useful resource for school students to connect with nature. One of our colleagues shared that when they were in school, their teacher assigned them a project where all the students had to list the names of birds found around their homes. The locations added to Google Maps could also be used as a reference for such school projects.
When I searched for bird-watching areas on Google Maps, I was surprised to find a spam location. Supporting the campaign Spam free Maps by @Tejal and @NareshDarji, I reported this location and it was accepted.
I also added Bird Watching place in the area of Meerut Cantt Railway Station as a bird-watching point on Google Maps and selected “Bird Watching Area” as its category. Additionally, I uploaded a screenshot listing the birds found in that area as a photograph.
This step is not only useful for bird-watching enthusiasts but also contributes to spreading awareness about environmental conservation.