Indian Pitta migration turns tragic as birds crash into high-rise glass facades in cities

Indian Pittas migrating south face fatal collisions with reflective buildings in Hyderabad. NGOs and volunteers have rescued several injured birds, urging citizens to report sightings to experts for proper care and rehabilitation, avoiding direct handling that could harm the birds

Sangareddy: The winter migration of Indian Pitta, a colourful passerine bird that breeds in the Himalayan foothills of India, Nepal, and parts of Pakistan, has begun as the species moves southward to escape the harsh northern winter.

Every year, thousands of these birds undertake the long journey, often covering several thousand kilometres. Many, however, collapse mid-route due to exhaustion or fatal collisions with reflective glass buildings and trees. The rise of high-rises with mirror facades in cities, including Hyderabad, has turned into a major threat, causing many low-flying Pittas to crash fatally.

Volunteers of the Hyderabad Bird Atlas (HBA) have reported four Indian Pittas found dead in Hyderabad over the past month, while one more was rescued and released into the wild.

The Animal Warriors Conservation Society (AWCS), an Ameenpur-based NGO, rescued four Indian Pittas so far this season. Shiva Kumar, founder of Voice of Nature Foundation, and his team rescued another three birds in and around Hyderabad. Of the four Pittas saved by AWCS, one died, while the remaining three recovered from injuries and exhaustion. Two of them were released into the wild, and one continues to recover at the AWCS rehabilitation centre near Patancheru. Voice of Nature also released two recovered Pittas, with one still under care at its centre.

Sriram Reddy, a key member of HBA, noted that the number of Pitta fatalities has increased considerably this year, while many cases likely go unreported.

Wildlife activists have appealed to citizens to immediately inform NGOs or the Forest Department if they find an Indian Pitta unconscious or injured, instead of attempting to handle it themselves. Pradeep Nair of AWCS emphasised that these birds must be treated scientifically, including providing food, water, and care under trained veterinary supervision. He cautioned that pouring water directly into the bird’s throat could lead to death by choking.

Nair advised keeping injured birds in a dark box or room without feeding until help arrives. Citizens can contact rescue teams at: AWCS: 96978 87888 and Voice of Nature Society: 94909 39424.