"Birds from campus" project

tool for knowledge of biodiversity and environmental education

Abstract

Given  the diversity of bird species in the cities, their ecosystem functions and the need for their conservation, it is important that society knows better this group and contributes to its preservation. This experience report had as objectives preparing a catalog containing the photographic record and identification of the birdlife of the State University of Minas Gerais (UEMG) – Divinópolis Unit; conduct lectures and photographic exhibitions of birds in the unit itself and in public schools and also offer a workshop on bird photography. The photographic records made it possible to identify 90 species. The photographic exhibition and lectures given at schools enabled the participation of 313 elementary and high school students. At the UEMG, the lecture and photographic exhibition counted with 60 and 445 participants, respectively, including students, teachers and employees. The mini-course “Introduction to bird watching and bird photography” was also held, which was attended by 17 participants. Combining knowledge with the use of technology, the project reached an audience of different age groups, providing new knowledge and arousing scientific interest, especially with regard to the biodiversity of the local birdlife.