Young Birder Camp

WORKSHOP OVERVIEW

The Outback Experience presents the perfect opportunity for young nature lovers and bird enthusiasts to step into the fascinating world of birds. This specially crafted two-day birding camp is designed to help your child discover, observe, and understand birds in a fun, interactive, and educational environment.

The camp will be held at The Outback Farm & Homestay, our own property on the edge of a gleaming lake — an ideal setting to experience the joys of birdwatching, nature exploration, and outdoor learning.

Bannerghatta National Park is a dream destination for bird enthusiasts, home to over 150 species of birds, including the iconic yellow-throated bulbul and the majestic rufous-bellied eagle. The Outback Farm & Homestay itself attracts a rich variety of birdlife, offering children the opportunity to observe species such as the red spurfowl, barred buttonquail, yellow-eyed babbler, white-rumped shama, puff-throated babbler, and many more.

Guided by award-winning wildlife photographer and naturalist Phillip Ross, your child is sure to have a fun-filled, educational, and deeply enriching experience. Phillip’s passion for wildlife and his extensive knowledge of the region ensure that children not only learn about birds but also develop curiosity, awareness, and a deeper appreciation for nature.

Phillip knows this landscape like the back of his hand and will introduce campers to birding hotspots and hidden gems around Bannerghatta seldom explored by visitors.

The camp will include engaging activities, guided bird walks, interactive learning sessions, and hands-on experiences designed to spark a lifelong love for birds and the natural world.

Come join us and enrol your child for this one-of-a-kind birding adventure!

WORKSHOP AGENDA

DAY 1: 23rd April, 2026

Arrive at the pickup point in Bangalore. Once all children have assembled, we will depart in pre-arranged transport to The Outback Farm & Homestay in Bannerghatta — your child’s most engaging outdoor classroom, we guarantee. Approximately an hour later, we arrive at the beautiful campsite and are welcomed with a refreshing drink.

Following a brief introduction and ice-breaking session, the camp will officially commence. Phillip will begin with an Introduction to Birding, helping participants understand the fundamentals of birdwatching, including how to observe birds, basic bird behaviour, and essential birding etiquette.

Once everyone is comfortable with the basics, Phillip will guide the group through an engaging session on Bird Identification. Children will learn how to recognise birds using key features such as size, shape, colours, calls, movement, and habitat.

We’ll soon give in to the enticing aromas drifting in from the kitchen — yes, lunchtime has arrived, and the chef reveals the delicious meal prepared.

After lunch, Phillip will conduct an interactive session on Bird Behaviour & Ecology, where children will discover fascinating insights into how birds feed, communicate, nest, and survive in the wild.

Phillip will then lead the group for an immersive evening birding session near the lake and surrounding habitats. This guided exploration offers children the opportunity to observe a variety of bird species while learning how to patiently watch and respectfully approach wildlife without causing disturbance.

We’ll then return to the campsite to relax by the lake while enjoying a snack and a hot beverage.

After freshening up, Phillip will host a fun and engaging session on Bird Calls & Sounds, introducing children to the art of listening to birds and understanding how vocalisations help with identification.

Over a succulent dinner, we will review the day’s sightings, share experiences, and celebrate discoveries.

Just before bedtime, we gather around the campfire, where Phillip will share captivating wildlife stories, discuss interesting bird encounters, and spark curiosity for the adventures awaiting the next day.

DAY 2: 24th April, 2026

We awake to the sweet calls of birds within the campsite. Stepping out of our rooms, we witness the mist rising over the lake and the morning sunlight illuminating the surrounding forests.

The day begins with an early morning bird walk, when bird activity is at its peak. This session allows children to apply what they have learned while observing birds in their natural environment.

We then return to the campsite for a steaming hot breakfast.

After breakfast, we embark on an exciting trek to a nearby hill and birding trail, offering panoramic views of the forests of Bannerghatta. This habitat provides excellent opportunities to spot remarkable species such as the yellow-throated bulbul, blue-bearded bee-eater, rufous-tailed lark, sirkeer malkoha, and various raptors including the rufous-bellied eagle, black eagle, short-toed snake eagle, and oriental honey-buzzard.

During this guided exploration, children will deepen their understanding of bird identification, behaviour, habitats, and ethical wildlife observation.

After a rewarding morning of birding, we return to the campsite and conclude the camp with an interactive question-and-answer session, where children can clarify doubts, share their favourite moments, and reflect on their experiences.