ONCE a familiar presence in bustling cities and quiet villages alike, the humble sparrow’s cheerful chirping has grown silent, fading into a rare memory. These tiny, brown-feathered birds, once symbols of shared culture and nostalgia, are now seen less frequently — a stark reminder of an imbalanced ecosystem. Every year, March 20 is observed as World Sparrow Day to raise awareness about the decline of this once-thriving species. The day serves as a call to action, urging communities to protect these small birds, which play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling insect populations. “Sparrows are not just birds; they are part of our history and cultural fabric,” said avian expert (ornithologist) Shirish Damre.

 

“Their chirping once marked the start of our days, creating memories that now seem distant.” Experts attribute the decline to multiple factors, including urbanization, loss of nesting spaces, and the rampant use of pesticides that deplete their food sources. Wildlife photographer Satya Prakash Pandey noted, “Urban expansion has destroyed the insects sparrows feed on and robbed them of safe nesting areas. Lifestyle changes have also made survival tougher for these birds.” Despite the grim scenario, conservation efforts continue. The observance of World Sparrow Day serves as a reminder to protect these fragile creatures by planting more greenery, reducing pesticide use, and creating safe nesting spaces. Small, collective efforts could help revive the sparrow’s joyful chirps, reconnecting us with a lost piece of our natural heritage.