Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], May 16 (HBTV): A Chennai couple, Sudarson and Vithiya, have transformed the terrace of their home into a sanctuary for birds over the past 15 years, feeding parrots, pigeons, doves, and house sparrows. Their initiative has turned the space into a popular attraction, drawing visitors including foreign tourists and celebrities.

Speaking to ANI, Sudarson said, ‘My parrots call me Sudarson. We've been feeding birds here for the past 16 years. It started after my father passed away. One day, I went to the terrace and saw hungry parrots looking for food. With more than 10,000 trees cut in the city, birds had no place for shelter or food. I started placing food for them every morning and evening, and slowly more birds began to arrive.’

Explaining the birds’ dietary preferences, he added, ‘We initially gave them sunflower seeds, but our South Indian rose-ringed parrots don't eat them. Now, we give them raw groundnuts, soaked rice, and seasonal fruits. We cook this fresh every day.’

According to Sudarson, the peak bird season is from December to March. ‘During these months, over 15,000 parrots gather on my terrace. It feels like heaven. I don't allow anyone on the terrace in the mornings. But celebrities and foreign tourists regularly visit. They can't see 15,000 birds anywhere else,’ he said.

In the summer months, the number of parrots decreases to around 1,000–2,000, but public interest remains strong. ‘People from Sweden, Switzerland, and England book their January tickets in advance and take appointments from me to visit,’ he added.

On the growing public interest, Sudarson said, ‘Every evening, around 100–150 people visit us. Mornings are restricted. Visitors say they feel very positive after seeing the parrots. Children especially love coming here during their summer vacations.’

‘If you search “Parrots Sudarson” on Google, it'll lead you right to us. There's always a huge rush,’ he said with a smile.

For more than 15 years, Sudarson and Vithiya have faithfully followed this routine, creating a haven not just for birds but for nature lovers as well. With deforestation reducing bird habitats across Chennai, the couple see their efforts as a personal responsibility to care for displaced birds.

Their terrace has now become a peaceful, well-known spot in Chennai—providing food, safety, and a sense of wonder for thousands of birds and visitors alike.

(ANI)