Rural forests in Banki turn safe haven for peacocks

THERE was a time when the people of Banki had to visit Nandankanan to see the national bird, the peacock. But now, thanks to people's cooperation and friendly attitude towards wildlife, the rural forests in Banki in Cuttack have now become a safe haven for peacocks.

- EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE @Cuttack

The peacocks that once lived in the Chandaka-Damapada Wildlife Sanctuary, on the southern side of the Mahanadi river, are now increasingly choosing to inhabit rural forests near villages such as Chakuleswar, Pathapur, Kushapangi, Dulanapur, Arapur, Talabasta, and Champatipur. Locals say the peacock population in these areas has grown steadily over the last five years.