The final round of the Olympiad in Ornithology was held

© Ventsi Georgiev

The final round of the National Ornithology Olympiad took place on April 23 (Sunday). 20 students from a total of 117 participants from 5th to 8th grade in schools from different cities of the country were ranked for it.

The final round was held in the building of the Persina Nature Park Directorate, located on the banks of the Danube River, and consisted of two parts: a test and recognition of bird species from photographic material. All finalists, their teachers, and parents were invited to participate.

All the children showed an extremely good knowledge of the birds, and the test and pictures hardly gave them any trouble. Nevertheless, Nikolay Dimitrov from “St. Nikola” Primary School – Stara Zagora – took first place in the National Ornithology Olympiad this year. The second place, with a minimal difference from the first position, went to Veronika Pavlova from 55 SU “Petko Karavelov” – Sofia. Denitsa Savovska from “Basic Progressive School 1” – Sofia, placed third. Prizes were prepared and distributed for all participants. The first three students also received special gifts – binoculars.

Nikolay Dimitrov – first place, © Ventsi Georgiev

Veronika Pavlova – second place, © Ventsi Georgiev

Denitsa Savovska – third place, © Ventsi Georgiev

The National Olympiad in Ornithology is one of the most important educational activities of BSPB. Conducted in the period from 1999 to 2008 with the support of the Regional Structures of the Ministry of Education and Science and with the participation of over 10,000 students from all over the country. In 2022, the event was revived after a 13-year hiatus.

Our experience over the years shows that the outstanding students in the final rounds continue to develop their interests in the field of biology and conservation. Some of the winners of previous editions are already distinguished scientists and specialists in their field, with a number of significant successes in nature conservation, numerous scientific publications, and national and international recognitions and awards.

© Svilen Cheshmedziev

The Olympiad are organized within the LIFE projects: “Pelican Way of LIFE“, “LIFE for Eagle’s Habitats“ and “Life for Safe Flight“.