TITLE:
The Architecture of Fauna in Turkey: Birdhouses
AUTHORS:
Hande Sanem Çinar, Funda Yirmibeşoğlu
KEYWORDS:
Birds, Birdhouses, Turkish Culture and Tradition, Design
JOURNAL NAME:
Current Urban Studies,
Vol.7 No.4,
November
18,
2019
ABSTRACT: The
development of modern society in cities has recently led to rapid urbanization,
which has significantly reduced the amount of green spaces (Furness & Greenwood, 1993). However, large green areas in a city (parks, cemeteries, golf courses,
wetlands and forests) play a significant role in urban biodiversity and provide
the necessary conditions for a great range of bird species to live (Blair, 2004). Due to the gradual decrease in the number of green areas, birds began
migrating to natural places. As for those who struggle to survive within
cities, they started to build their nests on power poles, thus causing power
cuts and bird deaths in increasing numbers. According to these circumstances,
birdhouses have become vital for the survival and well-being of birds.
The aim of this study
is to examine and render historical details of natural and artificial birdhouses
trying to survive in cities and natural places, and to call attention to and
raise awareness about the sustainability of birdhouses. In line with this
objective, the significance of birdhouses in Turkey is emphasized, and solutions
are introduced in order not to lose the longstanding design perspectives and
practices.