Field trip to silent valley

Field trip to silent valley National park and a class on Wildlife forensic science

SILENT VALLEY FIELD TRIP REPORT Date: 30/10/2024 No. of Members: 14 students & 2 faculty A batch of second-year students from the Department of MSc Forensic Science, along with faculty members Aiswarya R and Sooraj Krishna U from MES Kalladi College, Mannarkkad, visited Silent Valley National Park on October 30, 2024. This trip aimed to explore the branch of wildlife forensics. Journey and Exploration We commenced our journey at 6:30 am from Mannarkkad and travelled to Mukkali, where the Forest Department has an information center and dormitory/rest house. Upon arrival at 7:30 am, we boarded a bus to Silent Valley, located 30 km away via a winding hill road. Silent Valley National Park The park is a unique container of natural rainforests, spanning 89.52 sq km (core area) and 148 sq km (buffer zone). Originally named Silandri, the valley is home to three main tribes: Kurumba, Irula, and Muruka, who practice agriculture (Panchakkad) for their livelihood. Wildlife Encounters During our visit, we spotted several protected species, including: • Lion-tailed macaque • Nilagiri langur • Malabar giant squirrel • Bonnet macaque • Serpent eagle Deer We also observed notable tree species: • Churuli (100-110 ft height) • Kattuplav (20-year-old) • Vedipilav/Mullan chakka (fruit consumed by lion-tailed macaque) Clock Tower and Kundhi River From the clock tower viewpoint, we witnessed the breathtaking convergence of three merging hills and the deluge of the Kundhi River. Interactive Session After returning from the site visit, we attended an interactive session organized by the Silent Valley Department, led by Mrs. Sowmya and Mr. Arun, both B Forest Officers (BFO) of Bhavani Range. Mrs. Sowmya explained: ▪ The two ranges within the valley: Silent Valley Range and Bhavani Range ▪ Importance of forest and wildlife protection ▪ Duties of forest officers Mr. Arun discussed: ▪ Types of illegal forest activities and crimes ▪ Hunting and the Red Data List ▪ Personal experiences in the field ▪ The Malayatoor poaching case and procedural handling Conclusion This field trip provided invaluable knowledge and experience in wildlife forensics, emphasizing its significance. We are grateful for this unforgettable journey.