Avian Rehabilitation

101 of these comb duck (locally known as 'nakta') ducklings came to us this season. Every year we receive several of these mainly because some comb ducks still nest in hollows/cavities of large trees surviving in the remaining small green pockets in Ahmedabad. Now because of rampant urbanization, all the water bodies have been filled up, and buildings and houses have taken their place. In nature, once the ducklings hatch out, they follow their parents to the nearby water body and feed on vegetation and invertebrates there. However, in the changed urban environment, some of the nesting trees remain but the water bodies have gone. People find them walking in search of food in gardens, in farms, on roads, etc. The parents fly away out of fear and these poor chaps are left behind. 

We raised several every year and eventually released them back in nature. These messy eaters have huge appetite and grow fast, but a balanced nutrition is critical for healthy growth. It is incredible to see them grow into beautiful ducks that fly long distances. 

Thank you so much for your support. We will keep sharing our successes with you.

This adult sarus crane was rescued from a field where it was found grounded, unable to fly. It was exhibiting symptoms of seconday poisoning due to pesticides in the farms. It was very dehydrated and was very light in weight when it came to us. 

It was treated for poisoning along with some supportive care and fluid therapy for almost a month. She was being tube-fed high energy fomula food as for the initial week, it refused eating on its own. Later, however, it started eating its natural diet of a mixture of grains and lentils. We continued the food supplements until it was completely fit for release. 

This crane was then shifted in the flight cage where it gained enough practice and stamina to fly well. It was finally released back in nature inside its home range. 

Sarus cranes are large, elegant cranes at 152-156 cms. They are listed as vulnerable as per IUCN red list, with decreasing population trend. The main threats are a combination of loss and degradation of wetlands, as a result of drainage and conversion to agriculture, ingestion of pesticides, and hunting and killing of adults for various reasons. Saving every individual bird is important for conservation of species and we are glad we are able to contribute to this!

We are grateful for your support!