Parks in Delhi are being planted almost exclusively with Ashoka trees and palm species. These are not suitable for most birds. By redesigning the parks we can bring back many bird species that are not seen frequently. A combination of native trees, bushes, climbers and local grass varieties can immensely help this process. Habitat ecology should be adopted by making even small green patches interactive. A complete overhaul of horticultural practices is needed.
Of the total world bird species of 9956, India harbours around 1200-1300 of them. As a mega diversity centre India has a great responsibility in maintaining this diversity. It might come as a surprise that Delhi has nearly 250-300 species of birds. Sadly, the situation for birds in the Capital is deteriorating. There has been much concern regarding the dwindling number of sparrows in the national capital. So much so, that the house sparrow has been accorded the status of the State bird of Delhi. However, the fact is that many other birds that were regularly seen in Delhi are no longer found here. The Yellow vented bulbul and the White vented bulbul are no longer seen in Delhi. Bushes and creepers that are ideal nesting sites for them are not seen in any parks. Bush birds have to hide their nests in thick foliage so that prey birds do not notice them. Similarly ground nesting birds like partridges and peacocks need ground cover to conceal their eggs. But when the undergrowth is cleared and planted with exotic grass that is mowed regularly, the ground nesting birds are threatened. Nectar-feeding birds do not find nectar yielding flowers. Fruit and fig-feeding birds are also at great risk. Insects are found among wild grasses and reeds. In their absence birds like sparrows that are insect-eaters are at a disadvantage. Kingfishers need water bodies and perches to hunt fish. Water bodies in many parks have all been drained and planted with grasses. Instead fountains are installed that only waste water and are ideal grounds for breeding of mosquitoes. All birds need proper feeding, roosting and nesting habitats. These are to be provided by the natural and/or the built-up space in a city. The ridge and the parks and gardens of Delhi play a vital role in supporting bird diversity. Water bodies for water birds are equally important.
Source: The Statesman, January 2017
http://www.thestatesman.com/cities/where-have-all-the-birds-gone-148359…
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