Sparrows,vultures on government radar

The forest department is already planning to set up a vulture breeding centre after a few vultures were sighted around six months ago in the forests of Katarniya Ghat in Bahraich district. This has raised hopes for the department as the bird,primarily known as Gupys Vulture,was believed to be on the verge of extinction due to the side-effects of a pesticide called diclofenac.

“The last sightings took place three months ago when experts from Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) came here. It was found that the number of vultures present in the area was around 300. After the monsoon is over,we will once again take up an exercise to determine the number of these scavenger birds,” said R K Singh,Divisional Forest Officer,Bahraich.

Several reports in recent years have made it clear that the commonly-sighted house sparrow is also slowing vanishing. “Growing urbanisation is one of the major cause for it. We need not only determine the exact cause for its decline,but also look for solutions to increase its number and provide atmosphere for breeding,” said a forest official. “Since it is a city-bred bird and does not need wild area,there is a need for a specific long-term programme which will work with community support,” the official added.

For this project too,the department will be looking for support from nature lovers and experts from BNHS. “Once we are ready with the project,we will be inviting experts to join in for their suggestions and advice,” a senior forest department official said.