On 19 November 2019, an event to release a dozen parrots at Ataturk park of Baku took place with the participation of Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and IDEA Founder Leyla Aliyeva. Released as part of IDEA’s Urban Ecology project, the ring-necked parakeets (lat. Psittacula krameri) are species of parrots that are capable of living and independently repopulating in the climate of Baku.

Urban Ecology envisages settling relevant animal and bird species into green public spaces of Baku and its surroundings, as well as subsequently preserving these lost and vulnerable species.

Along with conservation of animals in the wildlife, at the initiative of Leyla Aliyeva, many efforts are also being devoted towards the protection of species that dwell in urban environments. Such efforts include IDEA Animal Care Center’s work to save homeless pets, special cat houses installed across the city, etc. These endeavors aim to create harmony as well as close, healthy and responsible relationship between people and nature.

In the past, squirrels and parrots were found in abundance in the parks and neighborhoods of Baku, but seemingly disappeared due to increased environmental problems. However, extensive greening works carried out in the country in recent years, as well as decrease in the cases of illegal tree felling have all created favorable conditions for the resettlement of many fauna species in Baku.