To Bring a sparrow back

HEMA SINGULURI I hyderabad

The Animal Warriors Conservation Society (AWCS) started a campaign ‘Bring back the sparrow’ in 2016 by consistently holding awareness campaigns and till date with help of voluteers and supporters, installed more than 1,600 boxes in Ameenpur, Gachibowli, Dilsukh Nagar and Alwal. Working with schools, housing communities and businesses, AWCS distributes over 1,000 boxes annually.

Pradeep Parakuth, founder, AWCS explains that contrary to popular belief, radiation as people say, is not the reason for sparrow decline. The real culprit, he says, is the loss of traditional nesting sites due to sealed concrete buildings and urban sprawl. “Sparrows thrive around human habitation,” he adds, “but modern architecture leaves them nowhere to build nests.” 

“Around 3000-4000 boxes we've installed, and around 20,000 sparrows have been drawn back to the Hyderabad region”, he added, marking a remarkable turnaround. 

Over years of observation and trial, AWCS developed a nest box with scientifically tested dimensions that dramatically increase breeding success. “The length and size are not random,” Pradeep explains. “They ensure the birds have the best possible conditions to breed.” With an occupancy rate exceeding 90% in many areas, the design has proven its worth. 

During every breeding season, volunteers also clean and replace nesting material, a crucial step, he notes. If old material isn’t managed, sparrows sometimes abandon nests overloaded with debris. “Male sparrows attract females this way,” he adds, underscoring how small details can make a big difference. 

Beyond boxes

AWCS stresses that simply putting up a box isn’t enough. Many people mistakenly install them in trees, where sparrows rarely nest. Instead, positioning near walls or in balconies creates a safer environment. Awareness campaigns in schools and communities are helping spread this knowledge, though the society says lack of awareness remains one of its biggest challenges. 

Pradeep also works with exotic and immigrant bird species, offering rescue services from his home in Beeramguda, where he observes bird behavior closely. He has even begun designing boxes for other native birds like Indian robins. 

With plans to expand and innovate further, AWCS isn’t just saving sparrows, it’s nurturing a balcony ecosystem, encouraging gardens and biodiversity across Hyderabad.