Lucknow, January 09: THEY say there is many a slip between the cup and the lip and it seemed true today, when hundreds of birds freed after weeks of exile were encouraged to spread their wings and fly back. They hesitated, stumbled and faltered, many unable to gather enough strength to make even a semblance of an attempt to touch the blue skies that beckoned invitingly to them. However, most did go for the much awaited freedom, regardless of the fact whether they will be able to survive the cruel weather or the gruelling journey ahead.

It was an agony of sorts for these 743 birds who were finally released today at the Kukrail Reserve Forest the after a month of speculation (as to the day of their freedom). Officiating person from court, K Kant was present on the occasion. He claimed the delay was caused purposely so that the birds could recuperate after their ordeal. Although the delay did not appear to have had much favourable influence on the condition of the birds.

It is to be mentioned that 812 migratory, rare birds were seized from the Nakkhas bird market on December 2. Among those recovered, 684 were of protected species. When recovered, 30 endangered birds were given to the Lucknow Prani Udyan and the rest were kept at the Kukrail forest reserve till any further decision.

It was 12.30 in the afternoon and the official asked the guard to open the cage. The birds huddling inside were encouraged and cheered to get out and spread their wings. Both tried and retried (birds and their saviours), tumbling out, some landing on the ground in their haste to fly, others almost making amateurish attempts at it. However, two black pigeons refused to step out of their captivity, such pathetic was their condition. Similar was the case with parrots, who immediately fell flat on the ground as they tried to sail. All the seven birds were put back in the cage and handed in the care to vet Narendra Dev Sharma, for further treatment.

According to the official records, the total number of birds died is 39. It includes two from the endangered species, a Himalayan Myanh and a Crane. Director Lucknow Prani Udyan, Eva Sharma, claims the Himalayan Mynah was brought dead while the crane died three days after its arrival, due to some internal infection.

Talking to Express Newsline K Kant says, ‘‘the birds could have been released earlier, but we had to be sure of the condition, whether they were recovered enough to fly back to wherever they came from. The court thus took its time. They were kept under observation for proper care and treatment.’’ However, sources claim the delay has not improved the condition of the birds and it remains to be seen how many of these birds actually survive and manage to return to their natural habitat.

One advocate of the above mentioned allegation is Divisional Forest Officer CP Goyal vehemently asserts that the birds could have been released the same day while only those injured should have been caged and treated, ‘‘today some of them could not fly and have to be treated. The delay in the release of other birds has unnecessarily increased their trauma and anxiety.’’

Meanwhile, pet doctor Narendra Dev Sharma who was also present on the spot, informed that a lot of care has to be taken of birds in captivity. He mentioned that during this time, the mortality rate goes higher because of parasitic infection, caused mainly by stress. He also agreed that it was wrong to keep the birds in captivity for so long and that they could have been released earlier.