Aurangabad-based Radhika Sonawane’s balcony garden is always visited by some special guests.

Floral

From bulbuls and parrots to mynas and crows, the garden is always flooded with the chitter chatter of beautiful birds. Every day, at least 20 to 40 birds flock to feed, and enjoy the safety of Radhika’s garden.

As a child, she regularly visited the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary near the city, falling in love with the furry fellows. Back then, she was not aware that her own home would serve as a sanctuary for many birds.

When she moved into a new apartment in Aurangabad, she was inspired by her neighbour to do something for the birds.

“I took inspiration from him and started installing some feeders at home. But during the lockdown, I got some more time to understand these birds closely,” she says. Radhika began catering to the dietary preferences of different bird species by arranging grains accordingly.

Floral

Currently, Radhika has six to 10 types of birds visiting her feeders and water bowls, including two varieties of parrots, bulbuls, mynas, crows, weaver birds, and sparrows.

She has feeders on both her hall and kitchen balconies, ensuring a constant supply of food and water.

At the same time, she also started growing plants to provide a natural environment for the birds. Planting more trees has not only made the environment more natural for the birds but also turned her home into a green oasis.

Radhika's husband too actively supports her efforts. With Radhika now working from the office, her husband, who works from home, helps refill the bird feeders, she informs.

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