Telangana Palapitta | Hyderabad, Oct 4: Telangana’s state bird, the Palapitta or Indian Roller, is becoming increasingly difficult to spot as habitat loss, pesticide use and illegal trapping threaten its survival.
The blue coloured bird has a special place in Telangana’s culture. Spotting a Palapitta after performing Jammi puja on Dasara is traditionally considered auspicious. The Telangana government officially recognises the Indian Roller as the state bird.
The bird was once commonly seen perched on field bunds, trees and electricity wires in villages and on the outskirts of towns. However, recent field observations and bird surveys indicate that sightings have declined sharply in several parts of the state.
Telangana Palapitta | Habitat Loss and Pesticides Threaten
Rapid urbanisation and the conversion of agricultural land into residential developments have reduced open spaces where Indian Rollers feed and breed.
The birds commonly use cavities in old trees for nesting. The loss of mature trees therefore reduces suitable nesting sites. Bird watchers have also reported a decline in Palapitta sightings around Hyderabad as habitat destruction continues.
Pesticide use is another concern. Indian Rollers feed mainly on insects, making them useful in agricultural areas for natural insect control. Excessive pesticide use can reduce their food sources and may also expose the birds to contaminated prey.
Illegal trapping during Dasara has added another threat. Some people capture the birds and keep them in cages to display them near temples or other public places.
Telangana Forest Department officials have warned that caging Palapittas can be fatal because the birds may stop feeding when confined. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Vinay Kumar recently directed officials to take strict action against people who capture and display the birds during Dasara.
The Forest Department said 28 caged Indian Rollers were rescued and released last year. Officials have also asked the Endowments Department to ensure that the birds are not captured during Dasara celebrations.
The Indian Roller is protected under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, and capturing or keeping the bird in captivity can attract legal action.
Wildlife experts and bird watchers have called for protection of old trees, open spaces and feeding habitats. They have also urged people to observe the Palapitta from a distance rather than capture it in the name of tradition.
For Telangana, protecting the Palapitta means preserving both a state symbol and an important part of the state’s natural ecosystem.
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