Thiruvananthapuram House Sparrow Population Drops
Why this is here: The survey noted a complete absence of house sparrows in several key urban areas of Thiruvananthapuram, an unprecedented observation for a bird once commonly seen throughout the city.
A recent survey revealed the house sparrow population in Thiruvananthapuram has plummeted to 109 birds. The Travancore Nature History Society conducted the survey on World House Sparrow Day, finding a steep decline from 262 sparrows recorded in 2025.
Researchers observed no sparrows in key urban areas like Shanghumughom and Pettah market. Traditional habitats, including Nedumangad market and Vettucaud community centre, also reported no sightings. The coastal belt showed some activity with around 30 nesting birds at Poonthura.
However, the coastal population also decreased sharply from nearly 200 in 2025. The Connemara market, a former sparrow stronghold, now has only 14 birds.
Conservationists attribute the decline to urbanization, lost nesting spaces, food scarcity, and pigeon competition. They urge action to install nesting boxes and raise public awareness.