Karachi’s Wildlife – Sparrows are disappearing from the Skies

The dwindling population of any species due to urban growth negatively impacts the ecological system of an area as was the case with Asiatic Cheetahs in Balochistan.

While it is not yet established whether there is a link between the loss of a particular species and climate change, such disruption has a cascading effect on seed dispersal, decomposition, pollination, and other ecological functions. Thus there may be an indirect climatic consequence due to the extinction of animals. The city of Karachi is a contemporary illustration of how its citizens’ actions affect its wildlife.

The feral population of pigeons has experienced a swift increase in the last few decades especially around the city’s roundabouts or tourist attractions. Providing feed to pigeons has increased their reproductive rates. While it may appear as an act of kindness since pigeons are associated with spirituality, a long-held belief is evident from Greek Mythology to Eastern practices. An act of mercy is an act of cruelty towards other species!

The UK government considers pigeons a pest problem – a growing argument in many countries – as their droppings corrode building materials over time, they are carriers of multiple viruses. Most importantly, their ever-growing population is diminishing the nesting places of other birds like sparrows.

Alternatively, infamous superstitious beliefs of feeding raw meat to kites to ward off an evil eye have led to an increase in the population of kites, having a detrimental impact on sparrows which are easy prey for predatory birds.

According to WWF Pakistan, the population of sparrows has declined by 70% in the last two decades in Karachi. It may soon become rare in the city as their natural habitat is occupied by other birds and human activities.