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Dasara bird poaching threatens migratory birds in Telangana

Dasara bird poaching threatens migratory birds in Telangana

Migratory birds face threats in Telangana as Dasara bird poaching endangers Indian Pittas and kingfishers. Wildlife activists urged the Forest Department to track social-media posts showing captive birds and act against those responsible. The International Union for Conservation of Nature listed the Indian Roller in the Near Threatened category in 2025, while the belief that sighting the state bird brings good luck during Dasara contributes to ongoing captures. Santoshi Pradeep, a founding member of the Animal Warriors Conservation Society, stated that Indian Pittas arrive exhausted after flying from northern India, with some crashing into high-rise balconies and others kept in captivity. Activists called on the Forest Department to investigate the online reels and initiate action. The Forest Department’s response to the social-media evidence will determine the next steps in addressing these illegal captures.

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