Indian aviculture was seen as a blank on the world map until relatively recently. The perception amongst experienced breeders from abroad was that it was still in the Stone Age. That impression changed when in 2014 I was asked to speak at the newly formed Avian Society of India. What I saw I reported on in an article for magazine Australian AviaryLife. I described exactly was I saw: a country where aviculture had developed discreetly, was very advanced and engendered a deep passion amongst very many. I returned from India jubilant and honored. For me it was like discovering the famed El Dorado.
Aviculture in India continues to become organized. The Delhi Avian Club sponsored the most recent event on October 10. The goal behind “NIAM” (North India Avian Meet) as the event was called was to bring together like-minded individuals and novice hobbyists to discuss problems, solutions and idiosyncrasies specific to bird keeping in the country.
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(c) Mohammad Akhalak
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The one day event contained four speakers, all of whom I personally know and whose knowledge and passion for aviculture emanates from their pores. Two care for large, productive collections.
Dr Debashis Banerjee manages a large collection that has a strong focus on lories and lorikeets, macaws and Eclectus, though the collection is extensive. He is a dentist by profession and has a profound impact on every aspect related to bird keeping—from avian medicine to hand-rearing. He shared this knowledge at the event.
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(c) Mohammad Akhalak
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Dr Prasanth Narayanan spoke on lovebirds, including genetics and mutations. This softspoken individual has tremendous knowledge to impart. Earlier this year we met at the second Avian Society of India event and I listened as he discussed bird keeping with several hobbyists. He was patient and eloquent.
Sadiq Bhaimia is known to many hobbyists on Facebook and beyond, as he has a passion for helping. He provides advice to many keepers who do not have access to avian veterinarians. He has experience across many groups and understands the local factors that must be considered when breeding parrots. His experience with every aspect related to aviculture is freely shared and has made a difference for many Indian breeders facing problems.
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(c) Mohammad Akhalak
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Finally, Dr Rina Dev spoke on preventative medicine and the recognition of a sick bird. This information is vital in a huge country where aviculture is very popular and where the number of veterinarians interested in exotic birds cannot meet the needs of the population. This situation will change, but in the mean time the aviculturist must play a proactive role in preventing illness. Rina is one of the avian veterinarians in the country that is spearheading a focus on exotics. She is young, intelligent and knowledgeable, plus willing to help. These virtues will surely make her a permanent figure in the local aviary scene.
The event was well attended and left everyone euphoric. There is a follow up event for next year. It will likely bring together the best aviculturists and clinicians with the intention to again disseminate information that is accurate, important and a key to success.
Way to go India!
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Author: Tony Silva
Title photo: (c) Mohammad Akhalak
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