As we start to understand birds in our locality, bird watching becomes more exciting. The more we observe, the more we learn about birds’ habitat, behaviours and role in the environment. Covid – 19 had an equivalent impact on animals and birds that relied on humans for their survival. With studies showing that climate change would put a large number of bird species on the verge of extinction, it is high time that we act rightly.
Due to lockdown restrictions people were forced to stay in their homes. With the closure of educational institutions, children got to spend their time in their home, inventing and experimenting new things. Many became chefs, painters, planters and so on.
However, two young students from Mangaluru kept themselves occupied with their own distinct initiative of caring for and feeding different bird species at their home. Arvin Leon D’ Costa (IX grade) and Allan Neethan D Costa (V grade) of Mount Carmel Central School, Mangaluru, are setting a fantastic example for the society by reminding them of the need of bird conservation.
The two boys are exploring the hidden wonders of nature with the ongoing support of their parents at a time when young people are preoccupied with their busy lives.
They live at Malli Layout in Gandhinagar with their parents, Lancy D’Costa, who works as an Assistant Manager in the Finance Department at KIOCL, and Nimitha Rita Pereira, who works as a teacher at St. Gerosa High School, Jeppu, Mangaluru.
Speaking to News Karnataka Lancy said that, “During the lockdown, the boys were more interested in planting, which attracted a large number of birds. Different varieties of birds started visiting our home. As they arrived each day, we gave them food, water, and shelter. The boys made shelters for them with carton boxes and they are being occupied by many birds. It appears that the birds are having a good time.”
He further stated they have kept water in bowls around their premises and as the temperature increased, they even noticed birds taking baths.
Arwin and Allan are both enthralled by birdwatching and are overjoyed that the birds visit their home every day. They spent hours understanding and learning about their behaviours and characteristics. “They capture the pictures and videos of the birds on their mobile phone,” Lancy added.
Great Indian Oriole, Cuckoo (Kogile), Munia, Sparrow, Bulbul, water hen, Ashy Prinia, Greater Coucal (Kupul), Oriental Magpie-Robin (Madivala), Jungle Babbler are according to them that visit their house on a daily basis. Rice, Foxtail Millets (Navane), Pearl millets (Bajra), and water are kept beside the window and compound wall to feed them.
Both Arwin and Allan are of the opinion that people must show some concern for birds, as they do not have access to food and water like we have. Nothing is available to birds, especially in cities. If people choose to feed and protect the birds, they will be able to see them even in the cities too.
They’re worried about the future of these critically endangered birds and they are putting efforts not to let that happen.
“Who wouldn’t love to wake up in the morning being so close to nature, listening to the soothing chirps of birds. I’m overjoyed since so many birds will be here by early morning. When they arrive, if there isn’t anything kept for them in their bowls, they will call us to provide food,” said Lancy.
Allan started to experiment in making Origami. Arwin is more inclined to do drawings and he even has a YouTube channel on the bird’s that visits their home.
The family intends to feed the birds even when the lockdown is lifted. “I am extremely proud of both my sons, as they are sending an important message to society. To protect these birds from going extinct, I suggest that people should keep water and food in each residence and the birds will be quite delighted.”
