The Bird Democracy

Kabutars (rock pigeons) elicit two opposing feelings in Indians: 'Aaa' or 'Hhat' (come or go). The rock pigeons have thrived in the busiest, most crowded, and human-dominated regions on the planet, despite the love and abuse they have received. With their concrete landscapes, cities have limited green spaces. Rock pigeons, for example, have mastered the art of adapting to urban environments. These medium-sized greyish-blue pigeons are probably the most frequent in cities today. Have you ever pondered how they were able to accomplish such a feat? 5 Rock Pigeon Mantras for Resilience and Survival In this exclusive interview, Ms. Pigeon shares her family's mantras for successfully coexisting with humans in cities.  Seize Opportunities  'In the city, there are those who look after us and those who do not. So, we might get grain and water today, but not tomorrow. Knowing this, we pigeons have learned to stay positive and adapt to our surroundings. If we are unable to

Mr. and Mrs. Robin are extremely busy these days. They are preparing to welcome new members to their family. But first, they must find a safe and secure nesting location. It is unquestionably not an easy task. What they have to say about the process is as follows. Ms Robin, 'I am worried. There aren't many good spots left. We need to find a location that ensures protection from the elements. Mr Robin has been hunting for a space and me too.' Mrs. Robin 'I'm concerned. There aren't many suitable locations left. We need to find a location that will keep us safe from the elements. Mr Robin, like me, has been looking for a place.' Finally, the day came when the two found the perfect home. 'It's a tiny birdhouse in the middle of a garden.' It is spacious and comfortable on the inside. 'There is no danger of the nest getting wet or being blown away by the wind,' says Mr Robin. 'The house looks nice from the outside because the h

We all look forward to summer after a long, cold winter. The warmth provides much needed respite from the chill. However, as summers proceed, the sun becomes potent. It dries up the water holes and plants. Hunting for food and water becomes a challenge. So, all of us look forward to monsoon.  Unfortunately, over the years, summers have become longer. And rains sparse. It is problematic because most of us are getting ready to raise our offsprings. Unavailability or limited availability of food and water makes it super hard to raise our young. Luckily, among us there is a rainy fairy. Her presence and calls alert of us the incoming rain showers. She is the one and only Ms Peahen. Whenever we hear the calls or site her along with her partner, the flamboyant Mr Peacock we get readyyyy!  And right on cue, we are blessed with the first rain of the monsoon season. And just like the water holes are filled again, plants are green, and flowers are blooming. This is the magic of monso

Things have been crazy in our neighbourhood lately. All the birds have been gossiping about the new development. The crows and babblers have been put on guard duty. The kites are monitoring the situation from above. Birds have been advised to hide their offspring and stay alert. Humans are also being careful. Boiling heat and lack of good and water aren't the only problems that summers bring. It heralds the visit of an intruder or intruders (which is worse!). Monkeys.  They come in search for water sources. And park themselves on the water tanks to cool their bodies. They are super destructive as well. Some even break the tanks and uproot trees when agitated. If possible they enter homes and steal food. Humans try to shoo them in order to avoid damage.  Like humans, we keep away as far as possible. We take turns to keep an eye on its movements and squirrels chip in. All of us are patiently waiting for Mr. Monkey to leave for peace to prevail. 

We urban birds only have so many corners on which to build our homes. Some build nests in small holes behind pipes or above air conditioners, while the brave will still seek out an unusual tree in the hopes that humans will not cut down their home. Our open spaces are suffocated by dust and grime. Community meetings are held on power lines, and meals are provided by generous humans. The harsh summers and winters make survival extremely difficult. But there are some privileged birds among us. Their house is a lush green paradise. They live in large open gardens that are filled with old trees, shrubs, and even small ponds. There are no buildings, no tree felling, and no noisy humans in their paradise. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner include fresh fruits and flowers. The weather is never too hot or too cold, so they can roam around freely all day without getting tired. How incredible would it be if we could all be privileged birds?