Cyclothon to save sparrows

BANGALORE: The word sparrows makes one nostalgic. But due to rapid urbanisation, the depletion in their population is very apparent. In order to spread awareness about the decreasing number of

BANGALORE: The word sparrows makes one nostalgic. But due to rapid urbanisation, the depletion in their population is very apparent. In order to spread awareness about the decreasing number of sparrows in the city and to find possible solution, the Bio-diversity Conservation India Limited (BCIL) organised a cyclothon from Cubbon Park to St Joseph’s College on Sunday.

Over 50 participants enthusiastically participated in the event and placed nests on trees. Dr Harish Narayan, general manager of BCIL, said, “We have conducted a study on the habitat of sparrows and the reason for their extinction in the city. Through this initiative we are trying to spread awareness among the students, corporates and others.”

He also said that the organisation is planning to hold a conference titled ‘International Conference on Sparrows’ on March 20 at St Joseph’s College Auditorium, Langford Road. In this conference, ornithologists such as Dr Sudhira, Ashwin Mahesh and Mohan will speak on the topics like impact of urbanisation on birds, landscape designs to attract birds and also sparrow mapping.

Roshan Rao, a participant said, “This is a good initiative by the organisation in order to retrieve the birds. We support the success of the project undertaken by the organisation.” Considering the possible causes of the fast extinction of the bird in the city he said that urbanisation and mobile towers can be a possible cause. He added, “Nesting space for birds are disturbed due to chopping of the trees in the process of development.”

There are many who miss the chirp of these tiny birds in their surroundings, as the trees are cut down. One such student is Ayman Tahoor. He said, “It was like a rhythm in the morning. But today, these birds are no where to be seen in the city. Through this initiative, we not only spread awareness about the sparrows but also speak about environment.”

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