BENGALURU: With vanishing tree cover and wetlands, birds in Bengaluru have started adapting to survive in the elevated sections of the Metro rail network. However, it is a big struggle to roost and nest amid the high ledges and platforms.
With conditions becoming hostile and Metro rail construction going on in many corners of the city, experts say the avians have to adapt or they may disappear like the common house sparrow.
Field observations revealed that rock pigeons, koels, mynas, owls, pariah kites, kingfishers, sun birds, etc have taken to these tall concrete ledges and sills, high box like structures for nests.
Vijay Nishanth, tree committee member, BBMP and urban conservationist said, “We have advised BMRCL to take up greening activities and plant small trees that can be pruned easily.
They have to make their stations green like Singapore and make them eco-friendly by keeping water bowls during summers and add tree cover to sustain the bird life of Bengaluru.”
With lack of twigs and other plant material, they don’t mind picking up artificial materials like plastic bags, wires, card boards, and even waste paper to build nests.
Avian experts say, “Earlier many species were part of this city’s skyline but with thousands of trees being cut, they have disappeared. An assessment has to be made how many species have vanished. Parakeets are finding it tough to adapt as their habitat is being destroyed.”