Share our Planet
In the face of rising instances of bird injuries caused by manja and other hazards, a sanctuary named “Whistling House” has emerged as a beacon of hope for parakeets in distress. Situated within the People for Animals Wildlife Rescue & Conservation Centre, this sanctuary, generously donated by the “Towards Equal Foundation,” represents a significant step forward in wildlife rehabilitation efforts.
The Towards Equal Foundation (TEF) stands as a testament to the power of philanthropy and compassion. A private Foundation (www.tef.life) is deep rooted in its belief that we human beings have to share our planet and are the only species with the power to protect. That makes it our responsibility to look out for ways to save nature and her creations.
The Whistling House sanctuary provides a safe haven for parakeets rescued from various perils, including confinement in fortune tellers’ cages, entanglement in manja threads, and encounters with electric wires. Tailored care and rehabilitation programs enable these birds to recover from injuries, regain their flight capabilities, and reconnect with their natural instincts. In instances of severe mistreatment, such as feather plucking, the centre conducts specialized procedures like feather implantation to aid in the birds’ rehabilitation process.
Designed to prioritize the well-being of its avian inhabitants, the Whistling House offers spacious enclosures, engaging enrichment activities, and ample exposure to natural sunlight, all of which contribute to both physical and psychological recovery. Colonel Dr. Navaz Shariff, Chief Veterinarian at PfA Wildlife Rescue & Conservation Centre, underscores the centre’s commitment to providing comprehensive care for these magnificent birds. Every aspect of the sanctuary has been meticulously planned to facilitate the birds’ recovery, with separate areas designated for short-term confinement and observation.
Since January 2024, PfA has rescued nearly 2,000 parakeets belonging to five different species. The success of the rehabilitation efforts is evident in the increasing numbers of parakeets released back into the wild. In 2022, 138 parakeets were rehabilitated and released, a number that rose to 176 in 2023, showcasing the efficacy of initiatives like the Whistling House sanctuary.
Dr. Shariff highlights the myriad benefits offered by the sanctuary, including specialized activities to aid in complex recoveries, exposure to essential Vitamin D facilitated by a partly transparent roof, and continuous ventilation to ensure a healthy environment. Moreover, eco-friendly materials and precautionary measures such as tape installation across glass surfaces further enhance the safety and well-being of the resident parakeets.
The establishment of the Whistling House sanctuary not only serves as a testament to human compassion but also reaffirms the importance of collaborative efforts in preserving and protecting vulnerable wildlife species. As these resilient parakeets embark on their journey towards rehabilitation and eventual release, they symbolize the transformative impact of empathy and dedication in the realm of wildlife conservation.
