Water scarcity in forest areas is causing distress to birds and wildlife

With no adequate water, they struggle to cope with the intense heat

20% increase in dehydration cases among wildlife, particularly birds

Water scarcity in forest areas is causing distress to birds and wildlife as they struggle to cope with the intense heat. The rising temperatures in forest areas like Turahalli on the outskirts of Bengaluru, are leading to adverse effects on its animal inhabitants. With waterbodies drying up within the forest, animals are being forced to venture closer to human settlements, increasing their vulnerability to accidents and attacks by dogs.

Covering an expanse of 590 acres, Turahalli forest, located approximately 20km from central Bengaluru, is witnessing a concerning trend. According to reports from the People for Animals (PfA) centre near the forest, there has been a significant 20% increase in dehydration cases among wildlife, particularly birds, from February 1 to March 20 compared to the corresponding period last year.

Among the affected species, black kites have been hit the hardest, with 226 cases of dehydration reported. Additionally, other avian species like rose-ringed parakeets, barn owls, red-whiskered bulbuls, and purple-rumped sunbirds are also feeling the impact of the blistering heat.

To address this crisis, efforts are being made by concerned individuals in collaboration with the forest department. Concrete tanks within the forest are being replenished with water, and a joint initiative called ‘Operation Quench Thirst’ has been launched by PfA in coordination with the forest department. As part of this operation, three water tankers are deployed daily to provide essential water resources to the wildlife population.