Providing accommodation for birds by setting up artificial nests is a unique endeavour this bird lover from Jaipur has embarked on.
Suraj Soni has started "Pakshi Awas Yojna" (Bird Housing Scheme) whereby a wooden nest made up of water-proof ply is set up on walls, trees or poles about 15-20 feet above the ground to provide safe accommodation for wild birds.
Soni has set up more than 800 nests for birds in the Jaipur alone. He says he has included several youths in his mission, giving them the designation of "Pakshi Mitr" (birds friend). These youth, Soni says, voluntarily help set up nests.
"We have made water arrangements for more than 2000 birds, we have also set up more than 800 waterproof nests made of wood. It helps birds in extreme weather conditions," he told . "The age of these nests is almost 5-7 years and it is waterproof. It not only helps them from scorching summer heat but also provides them with protection from rain and strong winds. Moreover, these are set up 15-20 feet above the ground hence there is hardly any danger of their eggs being damaged or eaten by snakes and cats."
Parrots, pigeons and several other species of local birds have made artificial nests their habitat. The "Pakshi Mitr" are also providing them food and water.