Photos: A picture-perfect ode to our feathered wonders on World Sparrow Day

Celebrated every year to raise awareness about the declining sparrow population and the need for conservation. Photo credit: Sanjay Hadkar/TNN

Their numbers have dropped significantly in cities due to urbanisation and environmental changes. Photo credit: Sanjay Hadkar/TNN

They control pests, aid in pollination, and help in seed dispersal, supporting ecosystems. Photo credit: Sanjay Hadkar/TNN

Older homes had gaps for sparrows to nest, but modern constructions do not provide such spaces. Photo credit: Sanjay Hadkar/TNN

Chemicals from unleaded petrol harm the insects sparrows eat, reducing their main food source. Photo credit: Sanjay Hadkar/TNN

Deforestation and shrinking urban greenery have removed shelter and food sources for sparrows. Photo credit: Sanjay Hadkar/TNN

There is no official population count of sparrows in Mumbai, but some areas still have them. Photo credit: Sanjay Hadkar/TNN

RAWW saved 133 sparrows in Mumbai in three years, showing numbers may improve. Photo credit: Sanjay Hadkar/TNN

Organisations like the Nature Forever Society distribute special nest boxes to help sparrows find safe nesting spaces and return to cities. Photo credit: Sanjay Hadkar/TNN