Dussehra and Diwali seem to be the worst time for our winged friends. The season is equally difficult for animal activists as they receive many cases of animal and bird injuries.
Bird hospitals and NGOs have already received over 500 birds—kites, sparrows, pigeons and owls—with broken wings, fractured ribs and burnt tails. The cases of bird injuries have crossed the last year’s mark of 380.
Friendicoes Vice-President Geeta Sheshamai said, “Birds mostly depend on light. When they see their surroundings illuminated, they tend to go out and suffer injuries. Pets leave home in shock and are blinded by the light. The injuries can turn fatal if not treated immediately.”
Old Delhi’s Charity Bird Hospital manager Sunil Jain said, “Birds are so traumatised that they stop eating.”
Wildlife Rescue Bird Hospital at Ajmeri Gate has been treating over 90 injured birds and Charity Bird Hospital has already received over 300 birds.
Wildlife Rescue Bird Hospital co-ordinator Naveen said, “We spread awareness among schoolchildren, but cruelty on animals and birds is still prevalent. When we go to police station to file cases of cruelty, they prioritise human over animals.”
These animal lovers still hope that their efforts, coupled with the boycott of firecrackers, can keep birds and animals safe.