Indian Pitta rescued in HSR Layout; glass facades of buildings are this bird’s major enemies

The other day, an Indian Pitta, was rescued by BBMP wildlife volunteers in HSR Layout. This was tweeted on November 15 by no less than BBMP Commissioner BH Anil Kumar. This is significant not only because this jungle bird travels to cities in the winter while on its way to the Western Ghats, but also due to the many incidents of its collision with glass buildings leading to its injury and death.

Similar rescues have taken place this month in Jayanagar and RR Nagar. Wildlife enthusiasts contend that these birds are often mistaken for Kingfisher birds due to their colourful facade – they have nine colours and are also called Naurangi in Hindi. While it is tough to blame the glass buildings alone, experts say that the birds fall on the ground due to their sheer long distance travel. They get tired along the way to the nearby forests, causing many residents to call the BBMP about the injured birds. Many Indian Pittas were treated in hospitals and released into the forests, including the bird found in HSR Layout.