In a unique initiative to increase awareness that pollinators vital to food supply are under threat, the Nature Conservation and Study Centre (NCSC) launched the Himalayan Pollinator Patrol, a citizen science approach during Pollinator Week – 2024.
In June, the NCSC introduced this citizen-science program to the community, highlighting its goals and the crucial role that citizen scientists will play.
The Himalayan Pollinator Patrol aims to gather data to support research, inform policies, and drive effective conservation strategies for pollinators in the region.
Pollinator Week 2024 highlighted the essential role of pollinators like bees, butterflies, moths, bats, beetles, and hummingbirds in our ecosystems, economies, and agriculture
“Our celebration aims to educate and engage the community in protecting and preserving pollinator,” said Jeevan Rai of the NCSC. “By adopting sustainable practices and understanding the impact of our actions, we can ensure a flourishing future for both nature and humanity.”
Activities took place across four districts (Sunsari, Udayapur, Khotang and Kathmandu), and included activities in five schools, two community forests and one campus.
It featured presentations, face painting by students, a drawing competition, hiking and even a candle lighting event.
In addition, volunteers installed bee hotels in two of the districts, providing pollinators with a safe place to rest.
As part of the Himalayan Pollinator Patrol launch, participants learned how to observe and document pollinators in their local areas using data sheets or the iNaturalist platform.
As a mark of respect to the late British Nepali lepidopterist Colin Philip Smith, widely known as “Putali Bajey” or “Butterfly Grandad”, a candle lighting event was organized at Central Campus of Technology.
Volunteers lit candles under gazing stars to honor Smith’s extraordinary commitment and to remind themselves of the importance of pollinators in the ecosystem.
The authority of butterflies in Nepal died aged 87 on November 4, 2023. He travelled to Nepal at the age of 29 to teach mathematics, science and English under the United Mission. He had worked in Gorkha, Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Read the full report of activities from the NCSC:
