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During my recent visit to the famous Sukhna lake in Chandigarh, it was shocking to see visitors blatantly feeding snacks to migratory birds. Ducks like Common Pochard (Aythya ferina) and Common Coot (Fulica atra) were fed with biscuits, chips and popcorn, and hence kept flocking close to the lake shore. This is a growing problem in India where citizens indulge in the feeding of avian fauna like gulls, treepies and several other species due to lack of awareness and sensitization. However, this may change the feeding habits of these birds and may also cause serious health hazards.
Immediate action is required to curb such incidences including proper protection for birds, awareness and sensitization for citizens and a strict ban on feeding the birds at a national level.
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Well-meaning but ill-informed tourists feeding wild birds and animals is an increasing problem that needs to be nipped in the bud. Watchdog groups around the country should work with respective state Forest Departments to put an end to this.