JOIN USPoachers target eggs of BU's peacock population
The Bangalore University, which has a healthy population of peacocks in its Bio Park, is grappling with a peculiar problem as miscreants have taken to stealing the birds’ eggs. Following its effective conservation measures, the university’s Jnanabharati campus had witnessed a spurt in the peacock population, a sign of a healthy natural ecosystem amid the concrete jungle.
After a spurt in the peacock population, the university had tightened security around the Bio Park by roping in private security guards. “Initially, miscreants used to target the peacocks and their feathers. The university security and the Karnataka Forest Department then provided us with necessary help due to which we could conserve the peacocks. But of late, miscreants have begun to target the eggs laid in bushes. Locals say that eggs are used in several delicacies,” revealed a security officer at Jnanabharati.
Dr T J Renuka Prasad, coordinator of the Bio Park told DH that they have intensified security all around the Bio Park protecting all types of flora and fauna from miscreants, poachers and smugglers. “While there are no reported incidents on stealing of eggs, at times we have seen eggs damaged at various places. We are not sure if it is done by other mammals roaming the park or by miscreants. Yet, we have taken measures to protect the eggs,” he explained.
University officials have even instructed the horticulture and gardening staff not to clear bushes or shrubs within the Bio Park since peacocks could be using them as nesting grounds. In the 800-odd acre campus, the university officials have demarcated a separate peacock habitat ensuring freedom for the birds. “Though peacock numbers are on a steady rise, the park with its vast space can accommodate the growing population for another six to seven years,” Dr Renuka Prasad opined. The university is also considering fencing the park area to prevent intrusion by passersby and miscreants.