As tempartures in the city maintain a steady high, Indhu Bala Ashok, a resident of Raja Annamalaipuram, started the ‘Water For Winged Visitors (WFWV) initiative at the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) Park, located on Seventh Main Road, Raja Annamalaipuram.
As part of this initiative, she has kept mud bowls at strategic locations across the park. Every day, in the morning and evening, she keeps water in the bowls. Apart from that, she keeps mixed bird seed (wheat, millet, sunflower seed and melon seed) every day, in a separate set of bowls.
Indhu Bala Ashok says, “We have no problem getting a glass of water to quench our thirst. For animals and birds, it is not so easy. They are forced to fly long distances just to find drinking water. They are drawn to places where water is. So, if you want to attract birds to your park or backyard, place water in bowls there. Water should not be kept in metal bowls. The water will evaporate and the bowl will heat up quickly. In places were birds are found in large numbers, the soil quality improves. Bird droppings enrich the soil. Also, they contribute to pollination and cross-pollination.”
The initiative has yielded results and is attracting sparrows, parrots, mynahs, sun birds and flower peckers to the park. One can hear the chirping of these winged visitors when taking a stroll in the park, she says. Shortly, more bowls will be placed at the facility. Also, bird watching can be encouraged at the park, she added. For details, contact Indhu Bala Ashok at 99620 29889 or Dr. R. Chandrasekaran at 98410 30040.
