30–32 birds suffer heatstroke; citizens urged to provide water

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Nearly 30 to 32 birds have collapsed mid-flight over the past two months due to suspected heatstroke amid soaring temperatures above 43.4°C. Rescued by bird lovers, over 32 birds were treated at veterinary hospitals and later released after recovery.

Experts attribute the rising incidents to extreme heat and rapidly shrinking green cover now below two per cent in Marathwada and under four per cent in the city. With large-scale tree felling reducing natural habitats, several species including pigeons, doves, lapwings, mynas, crows, robins, bulbuls, cuckoos and coucals are struggling to cope. Owls, hornbills, kingfishers and shikras are seeking refuge in the few remaining trees.

The decline of trees such as peepal, banyan, cluster fig, pipri, fig and papaya has reduced shade and food sources. Insect-eating birds are weakening in the heat, while reflection from cement roads and glass surfaces has heightened the risk of heatstroke. Dr Kishor Pathak, honorary wildlife member, has urged citizens to keep clean water in earthen pots near homes and plant and protect trees to help birds survive the summer.