Understanding Urban Ecology
Author: Madhav Murthy
Foreword by: Dr. Gopi Sundar, Bikram Grewal, Asheesh Pittie, Dr. Ashwin Viswanathan, V. Santharam
In our rapidly urbanizing world, society is increasingly losing sight of the need for harmony with the natural environment.
Achieving balance with nature — in communities, landscapes, biodiversity conservation, habitat connectivity, land use, and
green spaces — presents a significant challenge for fast-growing urban cities.
Against this backdrop, Madhav Murthy, a school student in Ahmedabad, has made an inspiring contribution.
Drawing from his birdwatching experiences, he has authored a book on urban ecology that thoughtfully documents the intricate
relationships between birds, their habitats, and the city itself.
A Young Birder’s Journey
With over 1,060 Indian bird species observed, Madhav was intrigued by the presence of birds in and around
the concrete congregation of Ahmedabad. What began as a school assignment soon transformed into an intense study of human
co-existence with flora and fauna, culminating in his book Understanding Urban Ecology.
Guided and mentored by Dr. Gopi Sundar (NCF), Madhav carried out field visits across residential areas
like Bima Nagar Road, Shantivan Society (Navrangpura), Saraswatinagar (Azad Society), Krishna Society (Panchvati),
and several parks including Law Garden, Sukhipura Garden, and the Riverfront Flower Park. His exploration also extended
to major water bodies such as Chandola, Chandlodia, Kankaria, and Gota lakes.
Why This Book Matters
This book offers a rewarding experience for bird enthusiasts of all ages. It serves as an exemplary guide for making field
notes and documenting the nuances of bird behaviour across diverse urban settings. For parents passionate about nature and
birdwatching, it provides both inspiration and a practical framework to nurture curiosity in children.
Amidst the bustle of city life, young readers can discover invaluable lessons, fostering a deeper appreciation and
proactive engagement with the natural world.
In recognition of his work, Madhav was selected by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology to participate in
the Young Birders Event in 2023.
I highly recommend birders to get a hand on this book.
Write to madhavmgis@gmail.com for more details.
