Report: Field trip to learn birdwatching (CAKE7)
Written by HY Leong
Photos: Liu Lai Wah, YM Liew and HY Leong
The morning of 11th May 2024 (Saturday) marked not just another day for CAKE's young adventurers but an exciting journey into the world of bird conservation. Blue skies and a sunny morning greeted 17 eager participants at Taman Botani Perdana.
The group comprised 8 enthusiastic kids between the ages of 7 and 12, accompanied by 9 dedicated parents. Kids were guided by four seasoned birders from the MNS Selangor Branch Bird Group (SBBG) - Liu Lai Wah, Liew Yoke Mooi, Chris Patterson and Wong Shea Hong, along with MNS Selangor Branch Commitee Member HY Leong.
The field trip began with an essential session on bird etiquette – learning how to approach and observe birds without causing them distress. Armed with newfound knowledge, they split into 4 groups to master the art of using binoculars and honing their observation skills.
After a brief break for snacks and necessary pit stops, we delved into the sobering realities of bird threats and climate change. But we didn't stop at awareness – the kids enthusiastically participated in climate action activities, understanding that their actions could make a difference in safeguarding birds and their habitat.
The first CAKE field trip of 2024 also coincided with Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Global Big Day where global observations are made within 24 hours in the name of bird conservation.
The young birders spotted a total of 24 different species, tallying up to an impressive count of 69 individual birds. Well done!
As lunch hour beckoned, our young conservationists, guided by their proud parents, took on the noble task of reporting their sightings. With each entry, they added a valuable piece to the puzzle of bird conservation in Malaysia. 
But the nature adventure doesn't end here! Kids and parents were encouraged to continue their birding journey with the SBBG. With endless opportunities for discovery and conservation, the world of birds awaits those willing to explore and protect it.
In the end, it wasn't just a field trip – it was a celebration of nature, curiosity, and the power of collective action. Well done, kids – you've spread your wings and soared into the realm of conservation heroes!
