Rainmatter Grove Updation
Here are some updates on the vital work of the Hume Centre for Ecology & Wildlife Biology,
The Hume Centre continues to be at the forefront of environmental action in the region. The recent visit by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, MP of Wayanad, further validated the importance of their work in ecology, education, and climate action. This allows the center to amplify its impact and foster a culture of resilience and environmental stewardship among local communities.
TomoSchool – A Month of Joyful Learning
From sounds to languages, from scripts to movements, from stillness to life—the journey of Tomo School was one of creativity and discovery. The month-long summer program at Hume Centre created a nurturing, intercultural space where children explored sound, place, body, and performance. Through writing scripts, building soundscapes, and engaging with theatre, they learned to weave body, mind, and voice into powerful storytelling. Tomo School was not just about learning—it was about joy, imagination, and confidence. Heartfelt thanks to the wonderful team who made this journey possible.
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Film-Making Workshop at Hume Centre
The film-making workshop, led by Leela with Sharath and Dilu, was an exciting journey of creativity. Children learned the basics of film-making—right from scriptwriting to shooting and editing. Working in two groups, they wrote their own scripts, turned them into screenplays, and filmed at the Hume Centre, Puliyarmala, and Myaldipara. Along the way, they discovered camera angles, lighting, and the art of storytelling. After days of effort, their films were screened with much joy and appreciation. Both films beautifully explored man’s bond with nature, leaving everyone inspired. It was a truly joyful and memorable experience for the children.
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Hume Centre and Rotary Launch Disaster Reduction Program in Wayanad
Hume Centre, in partnership with the Rotary Club, has launched a micro-level disaster reduction program in Wayanad to address rain-related disasters through localized strategies. Building on six years of work with the District Disaster Management Authority, the initiative now expands to vulnerable regions like Manikunnumala, Kurumbalakotta, and Thrissilery. The MoU was handed over by Rotary District Governor Dr. Santosh Sridhar to Hume Centre Director C. K. Vishnudas in the presence of key district leaders. The project empowers local communities to face monsoon challenges with resilience, combining global thinking and local action.
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Pre-Monsoon Volunteer Meet in Kannur
Hume Centre and Kannur KSSP jointly organized a pre-monsoon meeting at Parishad Bhavan, bringing together the district’s weather monitoring volunteers. The program was inaugurated by C. K. Vishnudas, Director of Hume Centre, with special appreciation given to Rasheen–Mattul for his dedicated daily rainfall recordings. Sessions included rainfall data analysis by Renjini A. R., hands-on engagement with weather instruments by Answaf Aman, and insights on hyper-local monitoring from Dr. Suma. The event also highlighted the impacts of climate change and concluded with a World Environment Day message by K. P. Pradeepan.
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Community-Based Disaster Preparedness Meet
A collaborative meeting with NABARD, Hume Centre, and STERC marked another step forward in strengthening community-based disaster preparedness. The teams reviewed progress, exchanged insights, and refined strategies for effective local disaster response. Special focus will be given to involving Pozhuthana and Meppadi Panchayaths through dedicated local meetings. With grassroots participation at its core, the project is building a safer and more resilient future for vulnerable communities.
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Automated Rain Gauges Installed in Chembra
Automated rain gauges have been installed in the Chembra region through a collaboration between NABARD, STERC, and the South Wayanad Forest Division. Located at Chembra Peak (1400 m) and Chembra Fathima Farms Estate, the gauges aim to strengthen hyper-local weather monitoring and support climate action and disaster preparedness. This initiative enhances community resilience and ecological data collection in one of Wayanad’s most sensitive environmental zones.
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Monsoon Preparedness Training in Pozhuthana 
As part of the “Munnorukkam” micro-level disaster mitigation project, Hume Centre, NABARD, and Pozhuthana Gram Panchayat organized local monsoon preparedness trainings. Experts from NDRF, Fire Force, and Pulse Emergency guided volunteers and climate managers on rescue operations, animal safety, and emergency response. A community-operated weather monitoring system helps participants identify subtle weather changes and plan for local disasters. The program strengthened community awareness and resilience, empowering locals to respond effectively to monsoon challenges.
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Hume Centre Presents Bird and Odonate Survey Reports
Hume Centre presented the Sky Island Bird Survey, Vulture Survey, and Odonate Survey reports—carried out with the South Wayanad, North Wayanad, and Wayanad Wildlife Divisions—to Mr. Pramod G. Krishnan, IFS, Chief Wildlife Warden of Kerala. The reports provide species assessments, conservation strategies, and recommendations. The handover took place during the National Seminar on “Bird Monitoring Through Citizen Science” at Kerala Agricultural University, attended by experts including Dr. P. O. Nameer, Mr. Praveen J., and Dr. Rathish R. L. Hume Centre continues to play a key role in the Kerala Bird Monitoring Network, contributing to systematic bird monitoring in the region.
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Strengthening Community-Based Weather Monitoring in Idukki
Hume Centre conducted a field visit to Idukki to enhance community-based weather monitoring for disaster preparedness and local agriculture, with support from Swaruma Palliative Society. The team met with district officials and local development societies to discuss collaborative strategies and conducted practical training on weather instruments for field staff. A climate awareness session was held at JJ Murphy Higher Secondary School, where 10 rain gauges were distributed to students for local monitoring. Discussions with the Kanjirappally Block Panchayat explored expanding the system, marking a step toward a climate-aware and resilient high-range community.
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Seminar on Vulture Conservation at CVAS, Pookode
Hume Centre, in collaboration with Arulagam and the NSS unit of CVAS, organized a seminar on the Role of Veterinarians in Vulture Conservation at CVAS, Pookode. The program, inaugurated by Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary Warden Mr. Varun Dalia, also included the submission of the 2024 Vulture Survey Report. Expert sessions covered the ecology and evolution of vultures by Mr. Muneer Tholpetty and the impact of NSAIDs on vultures by Dr. Sanis Juliet. Participants, including veterinary doctors, students, and NGO members, engaged in insightful discussions led by Hume Centre’s Executive Director, Mr. Vishnudas.
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Wayanad Birders Meet 2025
The Wayanad Birders Meet, organized by Hume Centre and the Wayanad Birders Network on 6 July 2025, brought together bird enthusiasts from across the district. Sessions highlighted ongoing birding efforts, the importance of a strong community network, and the launch of a long-term bird monitoring program engaging youth and students. A special “Kuttibirders” initiative was introduced to spark early awareness among school children, while CK Vishnudas traced bird evolution and current conservation challenges. The meet concluded with a collective decision to repeat the Wayanad Bird Atlas, fostering shared learning and renewed dedication to avian conservation
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Frog Watch: A Journey into Wayanad’s Hidden Wonders 
The Frog Watch program in Wayanad was an unforgettable adventure, full of surprises at every turn. From learning about incredible frogs—the water drop frog, dancing frog, purple frog, and Malabar tree toad—to spotting them on a night walk with Umesh and Charan chettan, every moment was magical. Beyond frogs, we saw glowing sambar deer eyes, a praying mantis feasting, a giant death’s head moth, sleeping bulbuls, and even the unique Indrella snail. Umesh chettan reminded us how lucky we are to experience this at 13—a chance to explore, wonder, and connect with nature like never before.
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Frog Watch Concludes with Creative Art Session 
The Frog Watch program ended on a creative note, as children transformed their field observations into colorful artworks. After reflecting on the frogs they had seen—their colors, patterns, calls, and movements—they sketched outlines, made stencils, and painted vibrant frog prints, bringing their experiences to life. The program was enriched by the guidance of naturalists David Raju and Umesh Pavukandy, and coordinated by Vishnu, Suma, and Dr. Rathish R.L., with support from the Hume Centre team and CVAS, Pookode. Heartfelt thanks to all 30 participating students and schools across Wayanad, and to the Samagata Foundation for strengthening science education initiatives.
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World Snake Day Awareness at GVHSS Munderi 
To mark World Snake Day, Hume Centre organized an awareness session at GVHSS Munderi, led by snake rescuer Ahammed Basheer. Students learned about the diverse snake species of Wayanad, unlearning myths and understanding the importance of snake conservation. The session was supported by Head Teacher Salma, Jayarajan Master, and Usha Teacher, and facilitated by Hume team members Anju, Chithra, Arya, and Vaishna. The event was both educational and memorable, inspiring students to appreciate and protect these often-misunderstood reptiles.
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Students’ Exposure Visit – Kendriya Vidyalaya Kalpetta 
Hume Centre hosted 16 Class 12 Biology students from Kendriya Vidyalaya, Kalpetta, for an engaging exposure visit covering Wayanad’s ecosystems, vulture conservation, wetland ecology, and human-wildlife coexistence. Students participated in hands-on climate action activities using rain gauges, soil thermometers, and agri-calendars, and explored the molecular lab with PCR and gel electrophoresis for the first time. Coinciding with World Snake Day, they received snake-themed badges and vulture bookmarks, sparking curiosity and wildlife awareness. The visit left students inspired, excited, and eager to explore future opportunities in ecology, climate science, and biotechnology.
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Hume Team Participates in Vulture Conservation Workshop
Our team members, Muneer and Saeed, recently attended the “Vulture Guardians: Workshop on Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Conservation” in Bhopal, organized by BNHS India with Van Vihar National Park & Zoo and supported by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The workshop combined scientific sessions, practical demonstrations, and advocacy training, enhancing their understanding of vulture ecology, rescue protocols, and captive care. This experience will strengthen Hume’s ongoing efforts in conserving India’s vulture populations. We thank BNHS India and all partners for this informative and inspiring event!
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Observation Visit – Sree Sankaracharya University, Payyannur
Hume Centre hosted 36 students and 3 faculty members from Sree Sankaracharya University, Kalady, Regional Campus, Payyannur for an insightful observation visit. The team shared ongoing projects and field activities, sparking enthusiastic discussions on ecology and conservation. As a gesture of collaboration, Hume Centre welcomed the campus into its weather monitoring community by gifting a thermometer and rain gauge. The visit fostered curiosity, learning, and strengthened commitment to climate awareness.
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Climate Action Awareness Programme at Mar Thoma College, Chungathara 
A one-day Climate Action Awareness Programme was held on 25th July 2025 at Mar Thoma College, Chungathara, organized by the Departments of Botany and Physics in collaboration with Hume Centre and Keystone Foundation. The event began with a keynote by Ms. Faseela V, highlighting climate change impacts on the Cholanaikkan community. Expert sessions included Global Climate Change by C. K. Vishnudas, Hyperlocal Climate Action by Ranjini A. R., and meteorological instruments and data interpretation by Ms. Dilna. The programme provided students with practical insights and inspired engagement in climate action initiatives.
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Tiger Awareness Program at Mary Matha College 
As part of International Tiger Day on 29th July 2025, Hume Centre, in collaboration with Mary Matha College’s Department of Zoology and Bhoomithrasena Club, organized a Tiger Awareness Program. The event, inaugurated by Principal Dr. Geetha Antony Pullen, honored the legacy of Valmik Thapar, the Tiger Man of India. Conservation Biologist Sayuj R. Ravi led sessions on tiger ecology and conservation, while Hume Centre Director C. K. Vishnudas spoke on Thapar’s life and contributions. The program inspired students and teachers to understand and actively participate in tiger conservation and ecosystem protection.
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Tierra Theatre & Performance Workshop – Part 2: Practicing Soil 
The second phase of the Tierra Theatre and Performance workshop, “Practicing Soil,” is taking place in Thrissillery, Wayanad, exploring human relationships with soil through movement, music, and storytelling. Children revisited their previous experiences from “Sensing Soils” and reflected on soil’s history, from traditional practices to its cultural and social significance. Sessions led by Dr. Suma, Devendranath Sankaranarayanan, and local farmer Rajesh Krishnan connected students to both the ecological and human dimensions of soil. Twenty-eight Climate Cadets from 15 schools and two tribal hamlets continue to engage deeply with soil as a living part of culture, history, and community.
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Tierra Workshop Day Two: Soil – Food for Plants, Soil is the Human Body
Day two of the Tierra workshop explored the deep connections between soil, plants, and humans through observation, movement, and hands-on activities. Children experienced the “Music of Soil” trail, learned about soil nutrients and plant growth, and embodied humans, animals, and plants in creative movement exercises. They built human-shaped installations, set up earthen levees in paddy fields, and concluded with group performances reenacting farmers, plants, and soil organisms, connecting learning with lived experience. The day highlighted the intimate bond between humans and soil, with heartfelt thanks to the Samagata Foundation for their support.
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Mazhayorukkam: Community-Based Climate Resilience in Amballoor
Hume Centre, in collaboration with Sustera Foundation, EDRACC Amballoor, and the Orukkam initiative, launched Mazhayorukkam (Rain Readiness) in Amballoor Panchayat to strengthen community-based climate resilience. The program empowers local communities to understand and respond to climate impacts by combining scientific knowledge with grassroots participation. Beyond awareness, it fosters a culture of responsibility, readiness, and proactive action. Amballoor is emerging as a model for people-led climate initiatives across Kerala.
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World Elephant Day 2025 – Celebrating Matriarchs 
Hume Centre celebrated World Elephant Day 2025 with the theme “Matriarchs,” bringing together elephant experts, conservationists, students, and forest officials in South Wayanad. The event, inaugurated by DFO Mr. Ajith K. Raman, featured sessions by Aneesh Sankarankutty on bull elephant behavior and Dr. Anoop on elephants and forests of Wayanad, followed by engaging panel discussions moderated by Dr. Suma T. R. Participants shared insights, perspectives, and ideas, fostering dialogue on coexistence and conservation. The day honored the wisdom of elephant matriarchs and reinforced collective commitment to protecting these magnificent beings.
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Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Visits Hume Centre
Hume Centre had the honor of hosting Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, MP of Wayanad, whose visit was both humbling and inspiring. She engaged with our team, learning about our work in ecology, education, and climate action, recognizing the impact of our efforts. Her presence validated the importance of our initiatives, motivating us to continue our journey with renewed commitment. This memorable visit will remain a source of pride and inspiration for the entire Hume Centre team.
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Vulture Conservation Seminar – Sulthan Bathery
On International Vulture Awareness Day, Hume Centre, in collaboration with the Kerala Forest Department and Arulagam, organized a seminar on vulture conservation at Gaja, Sulthan Bathery. Experts discussed the ecology of white-rumped vultures, threats from NSAIDs, poisoning, and habitat loss, emphasizing the need for landscape-level conservation across the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The event, inaugurated by Hume Centre Director C. K. Vishnudas, included the felicitation of Dr. Vishnu Omanakuttan for his contributions to vulture ecology. The seminar concluded with a call for community awareness, responsible veterinary practices, and collaborative efforts to secure a future for India’s critically endangered vultures.
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Visit to Panamaram Heronry 
At Panamaram Heronry, we witnessed hundreds of water birds roosting in the trees—white egrets, cormorants, ibises, storks, and herons—creating a breathtaking sight like trees in full bloom. Guided by Rathish sir and Saeed, we observed their unique features, feeding behaviors, and adaptations, sparking curiosity about their ecology and survival. Later, in nearby paddy fields and back at Hume Centre, we studied, sketched, and performed the birds’ movements, translating our observations into creative understanding. It was a joyful day of learning, art, and wonder, bringing us closer to the lives of these remarkable birds.
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