BioQuest is an annual 3-day Citizen Science Initiative run in collaboration with students, academicians, researchers and the local community of Dharkot in Tehri Garhwal.
Through BioQuest, we provide experiential learning and field exposure to students of Forestry, Agriculture and allied sciences. It is also our objective to create awareness about the diverse flora and fauna of the Himalayan region, especially around rare and endangered species of animals that face risks due to habitat loss and hunting.
Immersive Learning beyond classrooms!
Active learning facilitated by empaneled experts and local wildlife and culture ambassadors. Pedagogy and curriculum built to provide hands-on field exposure.
BioBlitz - Biodiversity Census
Basics of Camera Trapping
Nature Journaling & Bird Watching
Heritage Trek and Mini Haat
BioQuest 2024
BioQuest 2024 was held between Oct 4-6, 2024 in a small village named Dharkot in Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. The program saw participation from forestry students of different institutes. The program was run in collaboration with students, academicians, researchers and the local community.
A diverse mix of participants from different states of India, ranging from Andaman and Nicobar to Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Uttarakhand, participated in the program.
15 observers recorded more than 1000 observations and close to 400 species of native flora and fauna as part of a BioBlitz organized as part of the program.
Key highlights included butterflies like Western Courtier and Sorrel Sapphire, Huntsman spiders and Joro spiders, more than 50 species of birds like Speckled Piculet, Verditer Flycatcher and Himalayan Griffon, moths like the Tropical Tiger moths, Clouded Tiger moths and Wainscot moths, Bark mantises, locusts and various species of native flora. All observations were recorded digitally using iNaturalist and ebird.