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Nature walks, Bird watching & Bird photography are all intertwined at Kadamakkudy Islands.

At first I thought of creating three distinct pages for nature walks, bird watching and bird photography. In reality we all tread the same path. We often meet each other.

A nature walker just walk through the beautiful paths through the nature. Her intention is only to enjoy nature.This do not need any gadgets or equipments. All it takes is the desire to go slow and enjoy the nature a bit.

A bird watcher takes the path with the intention of watching birds. This also do not need any expensive equipments. A pair of binoculars will definitely help to observe the birds closely.

When it comes to bird photography, that combines all the elements of nature walks, bird watching and photography. For bird photography, one need a camera with a zoom lens. Bird photography is a vast topic. The first step is to reach the place where birds exists. This calls for walks through the nature. Then we need to know the best time for bird sighting. The last but not the least is to master photography. It is not about just clicking photographs of the birds. It is also about the environment and lighting. Bird photography is very interesting. Taking the first step is the most difficult.

What is bird watching?

Bird watching is all about walking leisurely through nature, quietly, enjoying the birds on the way from a distance without disturbing them. Photograph them and then identify the species, their characteristics, migration patterns etc. Kadamakkudy Islands provides everything that is required for birdwatching. According to ebird, 214 species of birds are sighted in and around Kadamakudy islands. This is a hobby even senior citizens can pursue very easily.Once you start enjoying it, I am sure that you will get addicted to it. More than the birds, it is being out in the nature with likeminded people with moderate walking and waiting that makes it very interesting.

Whenever I get an opportunity I visit Kadamakkudy for birdwatching. You are also welcome to join me. Here are some pictures from my birdwatching at Kadamakkudy. Again in true bird watching, bird photography is not mandatory. One can watch the birds with naked eyes or through binoculars as well (binoculars are not as expensive as cameras)

Fitness level required

Anyone who can walk slowly a couple of kilometers with stops in-between and with reasonably good eye sight can enjoy bird watching.

Dress code & other things to be taken care of

• Preferably, dress colour must jell well with nature. Earth colours are preferable.
• If you already have bonoculars / cameras bring them
• In case it is a sunny day, a cap will help
• During monsoon season, an umbrella or raincoat is preferable. It is very difficult to spot the birds when there is a downpour. They will come out as soon as the sun returns
• Bring drinking water
• Choose footwear which has good grip. The paths can be muddy at times. Floaters are preferable.
• Plan well in advance. Plan atleast a week in advence.