Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (MS)

Udupi, Apr 4: A peacock died of electric shock at Paniyadi in a densely populated area of the city. The locals informed the matter to social worker Nityananda Volakadu, who arrived on the spot within no time, made the people aware not to bury the bird and hand the same over to forest officials.

It is suspected that the peacock might have come in contact with overhead electric wire when jumping from one spot to another. Volakadu took the carcass of the bird and handed it over to Pana, a forest patrol officer who operates at Manipal Tree Park. Recently, the union government ordered not to bury national bird and national animal in case they die of any accident.

Earlier, respectful cremation of peacocks was done by building a funeral pyre. But as per the new rule, the carcass needs to be kept on the edge of forest for other wild animals to take it as good. Accordingly, Volakadu handed over the carcass to the forest officer.

Of late, many peacocks are seen in Udupi city. In olden days they were seen only in areas bordering forests. Now these birds die of vehicle accidents or electric shock. Farmers are trying to keep the peacocks away as they destroy crops. However, peacocks venture into city areas as they do not get fruits in forests. Volakadu says that the forest department should plant trees and plants that will provide food to birds.