Practical No. 2 The observation of termitaria (termite mounds):

  

Practical No. 2 The observation of termitaria (termite mounds):

Aim

To observe and document the structure, habitat, and behavior associated with termitaria to understand termite ecology and their environmental impact.

Equipment Needed

1. Notebook and Pen: To record observations.
2. Camera: To document termitaria and termite activity (optional).
3. Measuring Tape: To measure the dimensions of the termitaria.
4. GPS Device or Smartphone: To mark the exact location of termitaria.
5. Protective Clothing: Wear long sleeves, pants, and gloves to protect against termite bites and the environment.

Procedure

1. Preparation:
• Identify termite species common in the observation area and their nesting habits.
• Choose locations like forests, grasslands, or areas with decaying wood where termites are likely to build mounds.
• Move slowly and avoid disturbing the termitaria.

 

2. Observation:
• Observe the external structure of the termitaria and note any visible termite activity.
• Note the following in your notebook:
• Date and Time: Record the exact date and time of each observation.
• Location: Describe the termitaria's location in detail (e.g., type of soil, vegetation around it).
• Structure Description: Document the size, shape, and composition of the termitaria.
• Termite Species: Identify the termite species if possible, using a field guide.
• Termite Behavior: Observe and note activities such as foraging, mound building, and interaction with other termites or species.
• Measure Dimensions: Use a measuring tape to record the height, width, and circumference of the termitaria.
• Photograph: Take photos of the termitaria from different angles to document its structure.

Results:

·         The time and date of observation was-------------

·         The location of termitarium was ------

·         The Termite species was --------

·         The height of nest was --------- inches.

·         width of nest was

·         circumference of nest was ------- inch

• Termite Behavior: (Example: Termites were observed foraging for food and transporting soil particles to the mound. Worker termites were seen repairing the mound.)

 

(Note:  Never touch the nest or the birds. Avoid prolonged observation sessions near the nest).

Practical No-1 Observation of nest and nesting behavior of birds

 Practical No-1 Observation of nest and nesting behavior of birds

Aim

To observe and document the nests and nesting behaviors of birds to understand their nesting habits, habitat preferences, and breeding patterns.

Equipment Needed

1. Binoculars: To observe nests from a distance without disturbing the birds.
2. Notebook and Pen: To record observations.
3. Camera: To document nests and birds without getting too close (optional).
4. Field Guide: A book or app to help identify bird species and understand their behaviors.
5. GPS Device or Smartphone: To mark the exact location of nests.
6. Appropriate Clothing: Wear comfortable and camouflaged clothing to blend into the environment.

Procedure

1. Preparation:
• Identify common bird species in the observation area and their nesting seasons.
• Choose locations like forests, parks, or near bodies of water where birds are likely to nest.
• Move slowly and quietly to avoid startling the birds. Maintain a safe distance from nests to minimize disturbance.

 

2. Observation:
• Locate and observe nests using binoculars.
• Note the following in your notebook:
• Date and Time: Record the exact date and time of each observation.
• Location: Describe the nest's location in detail (e.g., tree species, height above the ground).
• Nest Description: Document the nest's structure, materials used, and its condition.
• Bird Species: Identify the bird species using a field guide.
• Bird Behavior: Observe and note activities such as nest building, feeding, guarding, and interaction with other birds.

Results:

• Date and Time: Example: --
• Location: (Example: tree in the northern part of the park, Hight of nest feet above the ground.)
• Nest Description: Example: Shape, Material used for nest. 
• Bird Species:      : (Name of bird)
• Bird Behavior:   : No of eggs in nest, Feeding young, etc

 

(Note:  Never touch the nest or the birds. Avoid prolonged observation sessions near the nest).