On World Environment Day, the Delhi Zoo authority has pledged to increase the population of birds in the park. For this, the officials are not only creating nestsbut will take up a plantation drive. Besides, zoo officials will also take students for a tour on Thursday.
As migratory birds had begun to flock into the National Zoological Park as early as August last year, officials are gearing up to give them a homely welcome this time. New nests and artistic perches are being built for them. “We are also making fresh points where their food and water are kept. Apart from that, we are also making provision to provide 15 to 20 kg of small fish to these birds everyday,” said RA Khan, curator (education), National Zoological Park, Delhi.
The zoo has also put up observation towers at select locations, which over the years have proved to be a popular hangout for bird-watchers to observe these creatures without disturbing them. The zoo has a host of birds like painted storks, shovelers, wild ducks, pelicans, parrots and peafowl.
To create awareness among the younger generation about the environment, officials of the National Zoological Park will take around 30 students for a guided tour on Thursday. The students will also be engaged in a plantation drive thereafter. “It is very important to create a sense of belongingness with nature among the children as they will help nurture it after we are gone. Apart from the tour and the plantation drive, the children will also be shown documentaries filmed in the Delhi zoo,” added Khan.
Students will be encouraged to identify the birds and study them from close quarters. “Here they get an opportunity to see the birds as they dive to find food, protect their young ones and fight to protect their territory. It is an interesting and educational experience to see these birds in their near-natural setting. Students also learn to respect the important role these birds play in maintaining earth’s delicate natural balance,” he informed.