Malabar Parakeets Threaten Cardamom Farmers

Cardamom plants are being protected with nets against the onslaught of Malabar parakeets in Idukki.

Cardamom farmers in Idukki are facing a significant threat as Malabar parakeets invade their crops, following previous struggles with monkeys and wild boars.

Farmers from regions including Pampadumpara, Mannakkudy, Kamakshivilasam, Valiyathovala, and Mavadi are taking urgent measures to shield their plantations from these colorful but destructive birds, which are descending in large numbers and causing extensive damage.

As cardamom beans reach maturity, the parakeets are attacking the crops, consuming the beans, and breaking off branches, leaving farmers in distress.

Local farmer Mullankuzhiyil Shaji Kora shares his plight: “These birds have become a morning and evening menace, damaging both the beans and the plants. Despite our attempts with drums and recordings of predators, nothing deters them. When approached, they simply relocate to another part of the farm. Recently, a flock of nearly 50 destroyed a large area of my plantation,” he lamented.

Farmers Seeking Solutions

Many farmers are expressing their frustration, stating, “We have dealt with various animal invasions before, but these birds are beyond our control.”

This year marks a sharp increase in the frequency and severity of damage, with isolated bird attacks reported over the last three years escalating to widespread devastation now.

In a bid to safeguard their crops, some farmers have turned to covering their cardamom plants with green nets, hoping this will shield them from further loss.

In response to the situation, Muthusamy Murugan, a leading scientist at the Cardamom Research Station, is currently examining the affected areas. “Our findings will be released soon, after which we will determine the next steps,” Murugan stated.

The Spices Board of India has confirmed that this is the first occurrence of extensive cardamom crop destruction by Malabar parakeets within the district, highlighting a severe situation. “We are actively monitoring the developments,” stated a board representative.

District Agricultural Officer Selinamma confirmed that the Agriculture Department has conducted a field study in collaboration with scientists from the Cardamom Research Centre and is awaiting detailed findings. “Farmers are reporting significant crop losses due to these bird attacks,” the official noted.