Youths on a mission to feed birds, raise city’s green cover

Trichy: On Sunday, youths under the banner of an eNGO here were seen placing earthen plates with water and feed in buildings and on trees at some locations in the city. Their aim was to provide safe habitats for birds so that they can help spread seeds and help increase the green cover. Birds play a crucial role in dispersing the seeds of trees, particularly neem, which they consume along with the fruits only to excrete on vacant lands.
“Sparrows have become a rarity to spot nowadays, but several birds including crow would indirectly help us to improve the green cover of the city. Seeds found in their dropping have the potential to germinate even in worst conditions, but safe habitats for the birds are declining,” said A Manivel, organiser of Trichy Saranalaya. The eNGO has been working on a project to provide shelters for birds across the city. The organisation comprising mostly students has identified as many as 45 spots in the city including in schools, colleges, sports complex, and government buildings where birds including crows can take shelter and consume the feeds placed on earthen plates.
As bird nests are no more seen on balconies and verandas, the team members placed earthen plates on trees and parks at Krishnapuram near E Pudur on Sunday to store water and feed.