Parrots To Pigeons, Chennai Couple's Bird Paradise Is A Hit
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They provide raw groundnut, soaked rice and seasonal fruits, cooking fresh food daily for the birds.
A couple in Chennai, Sudarson and Vithiya, have been feeding parrots, pigeons, doves and house sparrows on their residence's terrace for years, creating a haven for birds. The video of Sudarson and Vithiya's bird-filled terrace has sparked a debate on social media, with many appreciating their dedication while others raised concerns.
News agency ANI shared the video on X of Sudarson and Vithiya, who have been feeding birds for the past 15 years. The footage shows hundreds of birds sitting on the couple's terrace and the surrounding areas of their house.
#WATCH | Tamil Nadu | Chennai couple Sudarson & Vithiya have been feeding parrots, pigeons, doves, and house sparrows on their residence's terrace for the past 15 years, making it a great spot for visitors. pic.twitter.com/J3ZkLd0uQT — ANI (@ANI) May 16, 2025
The video soon went viral online, garnering several likes and comments from social media users. Many have praised the couple's devotion, while some have raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with large bird gatherings.
A user wrote, 'That's fascinating, Parrot Sudarson! It's amazing how cinema can shine a spotlight on hidden gems like yours." 'Wow. This is beautiful," added another. 'The Chennai couple's devotion has turned their terrace into a paradise for birds," a user posted.
On the other hand, a few users suggested that feeding so many birds could be harmful to their health. A user said, 'It is very unhealthy. Lack of health awareness is not something to be proud of& advertised. It is an untreatable health hazard to innocent neighbours too." 'Feeding pigeons is like keeping rats as pets. People are still unaware," read another comment. 'Pigeons are flying rodents," a user said.
Speaking with ANI, Sudarson said that their terrace attracts over 15,000 parrots during peak season (December to March) and around 1,000-2,000 during summer months. He further said that their place has become more famous after a few scenes from the Tamil film Meiyazhagan, starring Arvind Swamy, were shot at the location.
'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," he said.
They provide raw groundnut, soaked rice and seasonal fruits, cooking fresh food daily for the birds. '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," he added.
The couple's initiative has not only provided a safe haven for birds but also created a tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world. 'People from Sweden, Switzerland, and England book their January tickets in advance and take appointments from me to visit. If you search 'Parrots Sudarson' on Google, it'll lead you right to us. There's always a huge rush," he said.
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