Aqua relief for birds

BANGALORE: The new universal truth is that the sounds of birds have been replaced by that of automobiles and well, humans. Unfortunately, the ramifications of that truth in this city — once synonymous with trees and 400-odd lakes — is greater. While many complain about it, Yediyur Corporator N R Ramesh believes in action. He has installed 30 concrete water rings, 55 artificial nests for birds and 60 more specifically for sparrows in the six parks in his ward over the last one year. Result: Around 4,000 birds call these parks their home.The corporator’s initiative has brought some indigenous birds back into the city. The Spotted Dove, White-Throat Kingfisher, Black Drongo, Barbet, Grey Heron, Indian Pond Heron, Jungle Crow and Sparrows are now seen in this neighbourhood. “Our area is now rich with birds and trees. We started this programme a year ago and it has paid rich dividends. This is especially true of Ambedkar Park, where the large trees have sheltered several birds.” The concrete rings that store water is an excellent idea that can be replicated in other parts of the city as well. “In summer, the birds come down in search of water making them easy prey for animals. These rings, prevent such occurrences,” explains Ramesh.Ideas like these and more to conserve the environment can be soon sought at a small library to be housed on Ambedkar Park premises. “This library will have books pertaining to the environment and probably a section for children’s books,” said corporator  Ramesh.  The corporator has received words of appreciation and support from several people including environmentalist Yellappa Reddy. He  says, “We have very little flora and fauna left in Bangalore. To protect what is left, we can keep water pots and bamboo nests on our terraces and balconies. These habits will ensure that the coming generations can see the birds in real and not as picture in their textbooks.”