Chennai couple turns terrace into bird haven for 15 years

ANI May 16, 2025 362 views

A Chennai couple has turned their terrace into a thriving bird sanctuary, feeding thousands of parrots daily for over 15 years. Their initiative began after noticing hungry birds following widespread tree-cutting in the city. Now, their home attracts global tourists and celebrities eager to witness the spectacular gatherings. The couple’s dedication offers a rare urban refuge for birds while inspiring conservation efforts.

"December to March is the bird season. Over 15,000 parrots gather on my terrace—it feels like heaven." - Sudarson
Chennai, May 16: A Chennai couple, Sudarson and Vithiya, have been feeding parrots, pigeons, doves, and house sparrows on their residence's terrace for over 15 years, turning it into a paradise for birds and a major attraction for visitors, including foreigners and celebrities.

Key Points

1

Couple feeds parrots raw groundnuts and soaked rice daily

2

15,000 birds visit during peak season

3

Foreign tourists book visits in advance

4

Terrace now a global birdwatching hotspot

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' 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 months from December to March are peak season. "December to March is the bird season. 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.

He shared that during summer, the number reduces to around 1,000-2,000 parrots, but interest remains high. "People from Sweden, Switzerland, and England book their January tickets in advance and take appointments from me to visit," he added.

On 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 added with a smile.

The couple's terrace is now a peaceful place not just for birds, but also for people who love nature. They have followed this routine without fail for more than 15 years. With so many trees being cut in the city, they feel it is their duty to care for the birds.

Sudarson and Vithiya's terrace has become a well-known spot in Chennai, drawing daily visitors and bird lovers from across the world. As more trees are cut, spaces like their terrace give birds food and safety. Many people now visit their home to see the birds and learn from their work.

Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
What a heartwarming story! 🌟 In a concrete jungle like Chennai, such initiatives are blessings for our feathered friends. The dedication of this couple for 15 years is truly inspiring. Makes me wonder what small steps I can take to help urban wildlife in my area.
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Rahul M.
Amazing work! But shouldn't the government take more responsibility for tree plantation drives? While individuals like Sudarson ji are doing great work, systemic change is needed to prevent habitat loss. Chennai's green cover has reduced drastically in last decade.
A
Ananya S.
The way they've customized the food according to the birds' preferences shows such deep observation and care ❤️ My kids would love to visit this place during our next Chennai trip. Does anyone know if they accept donations for bird food?
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Karthik V.
As a Chennai resident, I've visited this place last year. The sight of thousands of parrots at sunset is magical! But visitors should maintain decorum - I saw some people trying to feed chips to birds which is harmful. More awareness needed.
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Sneha P.
This is true 'Atithi Devo Bhava' - treating even winged guests with such hospitality! The couple's dedication to cooking fresh food daily is remarkable. Makes me nostalgic about the sparrows that used to visit my childhood home's balcony.
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Vijay R.
While I appreciate their efforts, I hope they're following proper hygiene protocols. Large gatherings of birds can sometimes lead to health concerns. Maybe corporation should provide some support to make this initiative even better and safer.
M
Meena T.

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Chennai bird sanctuary Sudarson and Vithiya parrot feeding urban wildlife conservation eco-tourism