7 Adorable Antics Of Baby Bani
Wildlife SOS has rescued, rehabilitated and released many animals over the past 30 years. The everyday work at our centres includes our caregivers and veterinarians tirelessly dedicating hours to care for the animals. During the structured routine, certain episodes emerge and reflect the quirky behaviour of our resident animals. Their cheerful,[…]
Read MoreAll You Need To Know About Bani’s Treatment!
After over a decade of rescuing and rehabilitating elephants who have been victims of various forms of abuse, Wildlife SOS now houses its very first elephant calf. Though she is not a direct victim of human imposed abuse, her unfortunate situation is man-made. Rescued after a tragic train collision that killed her adult female companion, Bani was […]
Read MoreNursing Care For Baby Bani, An Orphan Calf
They say it takes a village to raise a child. But what about an elephant calf? Raising a calf, especially an orphan, requires its own kind of village, one with warm hearts, dedicated efforts, sleepless nights, and a lot of patience. Elephants are emotional animals, and being separated from maternal or herd support can cause immense stress to the[…]
Read MoreBani
Year of arrival: 2024 Age at the time of arrival: Approximately 9 months Sex: Female Personality traits: Still a baby, Bani is playful and mischievous. She likes to hold her own bottle of milk and makes rumbling trumpets if not given her bottle on time. Recognisable features: High impact of collision with train has caused[…]
Read MoreBaby Bani – Live Updates from the Field
In a horrifying, gruesome accident, a speeding train that runs through a recognised elephant crossing corridor near the Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand collided with a passing herd of elephants, resulting in the death of an adult female elephant and injuring a 9-month-old calf. The calf, likely thrown by impact, was discovered paralyzed in a […]
Read MoreEmpowering The Kalandar Women – One Stitch At A Time
The archaic practice of the ‘dancing’ bears not only subjugated sloth bears, it also put a tight occupational chain around the Kalandar community. Despite the practice being banned in 1972, the Kalandar men found themselves bound by this inherited livelihood, unable to explore alternatives. Meanwhile, the Kalandar women bore a double burden[…]
Read MoreRescues From The Helpline – August 2024
When animals are stuck in distress, the Wildlife SOS Rapid Response Units are always ready to respond to their call of duty. The month of August kept our teams busy with several rescue operations, including that of a clutch of python hatchlings, crocodiles from people's kitchen, and snakes from the high Himalayas. Here’s how the month of August […]
Read MoreNourishing Our Elephants: What’s On The Menu?
The largest terrestrial mammal traversing Asia, the Asian elephant, has a diet that is as massive as its size. Interestingly, in the wild, these humongous herbivores spend two-thirds of their day foraging, consuming up to 150 kilograms of food! Tragically, the dietary requirements of elephants in cruel captivity are gravely overlooked. Forced[…]
Read More‘Tree of Life’, And Life On The Trees
Most of us in our day to day life walk past a tree without giving it a second thought. Botanists have called this tendency “Tree Blindness”, highlighting how we could be suffering from ignorance. When we do give the greens some thought, our thinking is often limited to aesthetics or a tree’s ability to provide shade. Sometimes, especially[…]
Read MoreWe Are Not Venom(ous Snakes)!
Nature inherently fosters coexistence among all life forms, creating spaces for living and nonliving elements to thrive together. However, with rapid urbanisation, the natural boundaries between humans and wildlife, particularly reptiles, have blurred. Reptiles such as snakes are being increasingly displaced, often venturing into human[…]
Read MoreEnriching Elephant Lives Through Enrichments
Elephants are known for their colossal size, strength, complex behaviours, and remarkable intelligence. These highly social animals possess well-developed cognitive and sensory capacities adapted to their natural environments. In the wild, elephants lead dynamic lives, constantly engaged in activities related to foraging, grazing, and defending[…]
Read MoreThings You Didn’t Know About: Primates
Wildlife SOS introduces a new series “Things You Didn’t Know About” that explores fascinating and lesser-known facts about various species. Our writers will spotlight one inhabitant of the wild, unveiling its unique characteristics and roles in the ecosystem. In this feature, we focus on a highly social group of mammals —[…]
Read MoreMedical Outreach – Our Unwavering Commitment To Elephants In Distress
In February 2023, while Moti was taking his last breath, we made a promise to the dying elephant. We vowed that his death wouldn’t be in vain, and we pledged to go out into communities to provide urgently needed care for every neglected and abused elephant that we could. We knew it wasn’t going to be easy, and we knew Wildlife SOS staff would […]
Read MoreReal-time Conservation: How Radio Telemetry Helps To Protect Wildlife
Technology permeates every aspect of people's lives, and as the world takes swift steps with technologically-aided services, wildlife conservation initiatives are employing these as well. Conservation technology aims to maximise the capacity of technology in management systems for different environmental and conservation projects — be it[…]
Read MoreStaff Profile Of The Month: Dr. E Gochalan
Being able to shine the spotlight on our veterinarians is always fascinating as they open up a dimension of interesting stories and life experiences. Our staff focus for this month is Dr. E. Gochalan, who works and fights as a veterinary officer with Wildlife SOS, and holds elephants very dear to his heart (so much so that he even has a tattoo of […]
Read MoreWhy Research Is Important For Conserving Levantine Vipers
Reptiles are ubiquitous but cryptic. It’s always challenging to understand their behavioural pattern and ecology in natural habitats, especially when rescued reptiles are released into wild areas that may not be their original habitats. Snakes caught in conflict situations are often rehabilitated in forest lands, but the ability, pace or[…]
Read MoreThe Need To Protect Delhi’s Wetlands To Prevent Future Floods
Remember the deluge Delhi faced last year? It’s still fresh in our memories. The incessant rainfall and subsequent flooding in Delhi-NCR displaced wild animals, forcing them out of their natural habitats and into urban areas in search of refuge. It also brought a halt to the lives of its human residents too. It was not just last year, this year […]
Read MoreHelping Elephants Beat The Heat In Summers!
As the blistering heat engulfs regions of Northern India, temperature records break the mercury scale, shooting as high as 45.6 degrees in Mathura. Humans and animals are victims of the scorching sun and the myriad challenges that come with it. The situation is no different for the gentle giants at our Elephant Conservation and Care Centre (ECCC) […]
Read More5 Endearing Friendships at Wildlife SOS!
Who is a friend? A friend is indeed a blessing in disguise! Having a friend is important for several reasons. You laugh more, you heal better, and you grow together. Having the company of friends feels like a breath of fresh air one needs time and again. Maya and Phoolkhali, the two best friends at ECCC, share a special bond with a few[…]
Read MoreRescue From The Helpline — April 2024!
The Wildlife SOS Rapid Response Units are always poised to rescue injured or mistreated animals in need. April was no exception, with our team rescuing a total of 348 animals, including birds, reptiles, and various mammals. Our efforts spanned from rescuing animals illegally held captive to those affected by the intense heatwave and other impacts […]
Read MoreSOS! Desertification Calls Out This World Environment Day
Land is one of the most important and basic resources required to sustain life on Earth. While it steers the wheel for human civilization, land that is fertile provides habitat for various flora and fauna. Recent trends in global temperature rise, population booms, and urbanisation make our planet more vulnerable to the often overlooked concept[…]
Read MoreCreating Awareness: Leaving Imprints Everywhere We Go
The impact of information is more when it is shared amongst people. When knowledge about wildlife conservation is spread through discussions and communication, it empowers us to think and act. Did you know that leopards, the magnificent spotted cats, are classified as ‘Vulnerable’ by the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss and conflict with[…]
Read MoreEndangered Species Day: Wildlife SOS’ Efforts Towards Protection!
What comes first to your mind when you hear the word “endangered”? Well, the literal definition of this word is “in danger of completely disappearing”. In other words, this means threatened species on the list are at the risk of getting wiped off from the face of the Earth. However, despite the many measures taken around the world to[…]
Read MoreKeeping Up With The Tigers: Social Ties
The animal kingdom consists of a variety of species that have coexisted for as long as we can look back. Every species has its own fundamental characteristics, behaviour and skills, which they effectively pass on to their young ones to maintain the survival of their kind. Monkey infants, for instance, closely observe the actions of their mothers[…]
Read MoreAn Anthology Of Human-Civet Conflict
Owing to how it is commonly called, the civet cat is often mistaken to be a feline. This “cat-like” species or feliform actually holds a lineage that is closer to mongooses and hyenas. Being omnivorous, civets play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. Feeding primarily on insects and rodents, they act as natural pest controllers,[…]
Read MoreHand-Rearing Hope For Bear Cubs
In 2007, a heart-wrenching discovery at Srinagar's Botanical Garden led the Wildlife SOS team to two abandoned Asiatic black bear cubs. Tireless efforts were made to reunite them with their mother, but all attempts were in vain. Barely a week old, the tiny cubs were vulnerable without their mother’s presence. Leaving them all by themselves[…]
Read MoreFascinating Facts About The Golden Jackal!
Jackals have been associated with diverse perceptions all over the world. In African culture, the jackal is portrayed as a trickster, and Indian folklore describes the animal as being sly and clever. The Bible has a jackal representing loneliness and abandonment, whereas the Egyptian god Anubis, depicted with the head of a jackal, is known for[…]
Read MoreNational Tourism Day: Ethical Exploration Of Wildlife
Tourism is a multifaceted activity driven by humanity's innate curiosity to know more about our world. It encompasses visits to centuries-old landmarks and modern attractions developed to captivate today's travellers. Tourism contributes significantly to economic development, and provides livelihoods to several who invest their time and effort[…]
Read MoreRescues From The Helpline – October 2023
The Wildlife SOS 24x7 rescue helplines were abuzz with concerned calls from citizens for rescues in the month of October. Increasing urbanisation and habitat encroachment have led to several animal encounters amidst human settlements. However, rising awareness among people has also led to an increase in rescue calls, thereby preventing[…]
Read MoreShrinking Elephant Corridors Of India
The conservation of global biodiversity is currently in jeopardy primarily due to the loss, destruction, and fragmentation of natural ecosystems. Driven by the demands of a growing economy and an expanding human population, the Asian elephant, known scientifically as Elephas maximus, is facing a grave threat to its existence. The proliferation of […]
Read MoreAssessing Human-Crocodile Interactions In Uttar Pradesh
Given the diverse settlements found in the state of Uttar Pradesh, urbanisation has still not encroached upon natural spaces and tainted their beauty. However, being the state with the highest human population in India, the threat of urban expansion looms over these precious natural areas. At present, a large number of villages are present in[…]
Read MoreMake Your Neighbourhood Nature Friendly!
Blaring sirens, the air thick with exhaust fumes, the sounds of honking cars, and the perpetual greyness that surrounds us… All this happens to be a shared experience for many of us that live in megacities, be it Delhi, London or Beijing. Our surroundings are filled with concrete structures, while the only greenery to be found is in the[…]
Read MorePioneering Animal Treatment At MLRC
Providing quality medical treatment is immensely crucial to wildlife conservation. On a planet where wild animals are constantly threatened by anthropogenic pressures such as urbanisation or habitat encroachment, non-human beings often experience grievous injuries or accidents due to infrastructure development. These can be caused as a result of[…]
Read MoreFrom Dusk Till Dawn: Unmasking The World Of Owls
As the sun sets and darkness blankets the land, a rather mystical figure takes flight. This is no caped knight from a film, but nature's very own superhero: the owl. With an ability to navigate without leaving a trace and hunt with unparalleled precision, they have captured our imagination since time immemorial. Found in myths and folklore[…]
Read MoreRising Above: Wildlife SOS And Friendicoes Rescue Delhi-NCR’s Flood-Stricken Animals
We have recently witnessed the devastating onslaught of the Yamuna floods in the Delhi-NCR region. The trail of destruction not only affected human lives but has also wreaked havoc on the local wildlife. However, it is essential to recognise that these floods were not a result of nature's whims; instead, they were caused by a combination of[…]
Read MoreFundraising For Wildlife Conservation: Building A Sustainable Future Together
"Caring for wildlife is not just an act of compassion; it is an investment in our own future." Sir David Attenborough Human desires are boundless. However, one of the harsh realities we face today is that the resources to fulfil our wants are limited. In our relentless pursuit of various aspirations, humanity has laid claim to all available[…]
Read MoreWorld Population Day: The Role Of Numbers In Wildlife Conservation
World Population Day is celebrated annually on July 11th, ever since a recommendation was made by the Governing Council of the United Nations Development Programme in 1989. The occasion is aimed to draw attention to the issues related to population (and its monumental rise) worldwide. Understanding the impact of rising human population on our[…]
Read MoreVan Mahotsav: Celebrating The Festival Of Forests With Wildlife SOS
“Van Mahotsav” or Festival of Forests is celebrated across India from July 1-7 every year. This event was established in 1950 in an effort to safeguard the environment and increase public awareness of the value of trees and forests. To observe this week-long festival, several people come forward to plant trees and engage in awareness[…]
Read MoreLeopard Awareness Workshop Organised By Wildlife SOS At TCL, Arvi
Leopards are the most adaptable of all big cats. Their size and stealth allow leopards to manoeuvre diverse topography. However with rising urbanisation, more and more felines are seeking out habitation in proximity to human spaces, leading to human-wildlife conflict. Locals near the Tata Communications Limited (TCL) guest house near Arvi had[…]
Read MoreSnakes With Legs? The Curious Case of Snake Evolution!
Snakes have been misrepresented in varying degrees across several myths, folktales and even popular media... but did you know that there's one amazing narrative we have all overlooked? From slithering on the ground in the age of dinosaurs to living amidst the nooks and crannies of urban jungles and gardens, snakes have stood the test of time.[…]
Read MoreWildlife SOS Receives Silver Button from YouTube For 100K+ Subscribers
As one of the first Indian wildlife charities to reach over a hundred thousand subscribers on YouTube, Wildlife SOS has been awarded the Silver Play Button. This Creator Award from YouTube is a testament to the organisation's efforts to promote its cause on the well-known video-sharing website. The YouTube Silver Play Button was awarded to[…]
Read MoreLeopard Day Creative Writing Contest
Leopards are elusive, nocturnal animals that are listed as ‘Near Threatened’ under the IUCN Red List. They are umbrella species that play an important role in maintaining the health of the ecosystem they are a part of.On the occasion of International Leopard Day, Wildlife SOS conducted a literary writing contest to help raise awareness about[…]
Read MoreLeopards And Open Wells: A Chronicle Of Danger
“A leopard never changes its spots.” This popular proverb is meant to imply that one cannot change their inherent nature. However, nothing could be further from this truth as far as an actual leopard is concerned! Highly adaptable and the smallest among all the big cats, the leopard (Panthera pardus) occupies a wide range of terrains from[…]
Read MoreRescues From The Helpline – March 2023
When animals are stuck in distress, the Wildlife SOS Rapid Response Units are always ready to respond to their call of duty. Throughout the month of March, our teams were busy with several rescue operations, including that of a monkey from a VIP location, a crocodile from human habitations, and owls from the high Himalayas. Along with these, our[…]
Read MoreHighlighting Wildlife SOS’ Work In Maharashtra On International Day Of Forests
Traipsing through the sugarcane fields of Maharashtra, leopards are on a perpetual prowl to survive in a rapidly urbanising world that has been claiming more of the forest cover. With their habitat declining, leopards are seen more commonly in villages and towns of this western Indian state. Maharashtra has the third-highest population of the[…]
Read MoreBatting An Eye For The Nocturnal Residents Of Delhi
Delhi has gone through several stages of urbanisation, albeit not in a positive direction for some of its original inhabitants. When the city was not there, the mighty Aravalli forests stood tall in its place, and the dense forests were home to numerous wild animals. As the green cover degraded and was slowly replaced by urban sprawl, the animals […]
Read MoreA Golden Howl In The Wild
Jackals are one of the most underappreciated mammals found in India. Did you know that the Golden jackal (Canis aureus) is an extremely widespread canid in the country? But there’s a catch to this. The Golden jackal actually has seven subspecies, of which the one found most in India is the Indian Jackal (C.a. indicus). The C.a. aureus, commonly […]
Read MoreHaven For The Hidden: Where To Spot Wildlife In And Around Delhi
If you are living in an urban environment and planning to spend some time in nature, look around closely and you will find jungles within the city. Of course, most cities including the country’s capital are known better as concrete jungles, but you may be surprised to know that Delhi harbours some really old forests. These green spaces are now[…]
Read MoreRemarkable Rescues Of The Indian Rock Python
The Indian Rock python (Python molurus) is a widely found species and they inhabit various ecosystems and habitats. It is the largest snake found in India, measuring up to 16-20 feet in length and weighing as heavy as 90 kilograms! They are primarily nocturnal and terrestrial, but these ambush predators can be selectively arboreal if the need[…]
Read MoreWildlife Education At Our Rescue Centres
We often get confused when we hear the word ‘education’ since its textbook definition is one-dimensional. Most of us associate the process of learning within certain settings of schools, colleges and universities, but we tend to forget about the most important education centre of all – Nature. All of Wildlife SOS’ rescue and[…]
Read MoreUnusual Snakes Rescued By Wildlife SOS
Wildlife SOS Rapid Response Unit carries out rescues from the most unexpected places, and of the most unusual species. They rescued over 300 reptiles from in and around Agra city in the months of September and October alone! Most commonly found reptiles include venomous snakes like the Spectacled cobra and Common kraits and non-venomous ones like […]
Read MoreClimate Change-Induced Heatwaves Severely Affect Animals
Climate change is a haunting reality. According to scientists, humans have played a huge role in creating it, and we have fallen short of addressing this conundrum. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) revealed that this year, India recorded its hottest March in 122 years. The Indian capital city of Delhi reportedly experienced its second[…]
Read MoreMyths, Misconceptions, And Misrepresentation Of Reptiles
Be it through stories, media, or culture, reptiles have held a complex representation since time immemorial. The Harry Potter franchise introduced us to the monstrous giant snake, the basilisk, haunting the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Lord Voldemort was also known to have kept a pet snake 'Nagini' who helped him ascend back into[…]
Read MoreECCC Plays Host To Miss Universe Great Britain 2022
As the elephants at the Wildlife SOS Elephant Conservation and Care Centre (ECCC) in Mathura were preparing for a regular day, they were oblivious to the fact that some special visitors, who had been eagerly waiting to meet them, were on their way! Among them was Miss Universe Great Britain 2022 Noky Simbani, who undertook a conservation[…]
Read MoreIntroducing The Subspecies Of Asian Elephants
The Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) is the largest mammal living on the land of Asia, and occupies the Southern and Southeastern parts of the continent. This species ranges from northern India to the southern tip of the Sumatran islands. While its African cousins are slightly larger in size and have discernable physical characteristics, Asian[…]
Read MoreHow Do Leopards Communicate?
Spotted, stealthy and solitary. These are three key characteristics that aid leopards to survive in the wild. The big cat has adapted to a wide range of habitats across the country — from forests and grasslands to plantations. As human habitation expands, encounters with leopards in urbanised landscapes have increased as well. A[…]
Read MoreRescues From The Helpline — July 2022
The dedicated team at Wildlife SOS continues to remain hard at work to mitigate human-animal conflict to the best of their abilities. There is no shortage of instances where the paths of humans and wild animals have overlapped and every month, we receive multiple calls on our 24x7 helpline numbers about such encounters. This month was no[…]
Read MoreWorld Photography Day: Every Picture Tells A Story
In the words of world renowned photographer Ansel Adams, “You don’t take a photograph, you make it.” Photographers go to extreme lengths to get a perfectly timed photograph, sometimes spending days in the wild and even risking their lives in the process! On the occasion of World Photography Day, we present to you seven remarkable stories […]
Read MoreSpotlight On The Spotted Owlet!
Spotted owlets are common across the Indian subcontinent. You can spot one peeping out of a tree hole, or an entire family huddled together on a tree’s branch! Both the male and female of this species look alike: they have greyish-brown upperparts and white spots overall. Compared to most owls, this owlet has a relatively smaller body[…]
Read MoreTwo Young Leopards Find A Home At MLRC
Earlier this year, two leopard cubs were found in separate instances occurring just a few days apart in the fields of the Otur Range in Junnar district by the Maharashtra Forest Department. The officials immediately alerted the Wildlife SOS team for their assistance to treat and care for the abandoned female cubs. On-site examination revealed the […]
Read MoreWorld Tiger Day: Threats To The Majestic Cat
Each year, we celebrate International Tiger Day on July 29 to turn the spotlight on the majestic big cat species — tigers. On this day, nature enthusiasts all around the world engage in conversations around the ecological role, prevalence, and population of tigers. There are nine subspecies of tigers across the globe, of which the Bengal tiger[…]
Read MoreDesert Animals Rescued By Wildlife SOS!
While deserts are often misunderstood as lifeless habitats, these landscapes serve as a refuge for wildlife. A desert ecosystem has a lot to give to its inhabitants, and in return, the inhabitants safeguard their home. This might shock you, but deserts are the world’s largest terrestrial biome, covering nearly 20% (⅕th) of the Earth’s land[…]
Read MoreThe Common Lizards Of India!
The word Lizard itself can run a chill down one’s spine. Even the sudden movement of a Common house gecko on the wall is petrifying! The daunting eyes, bulbous webbed digits, and the ability of the animal to lose and regrow its tail (!) contribute to an ever lasting fright amongst so many of us. However, this is not all there is to know[…]
Read MoreOpen Well Rescue: Wildlife SOS Saves A Striped Hyena
It was in the early hours of morning when the locals from a small village in Maharashtra called Buchkewadi were alarmed by loud, distressed calls. While locating the source of these screeches, the villagers reached a nearly 30-feet-deep well. Here, they were taken aback as they spotted a Striped Hyena (locally known as Lakkad bagga or Taras)[…]
Read MoreBear in Mind: A History Of Bile, Dancing, And Conflict
There are a total of eight bear species in the world. Some have made their way into pop culture, like the Brown Bear as a plushie for kids, and the Panda as a fun-filled character of the animated film, Kung Fu Panda (2008). However, of all these 8 species, 6 are listed as “vulnerable” by IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (2016). The tales[…]
Read MoreWarming Kashmir Forces Snakes To Come Out
What if we told you that climate change is causing an increase in snake sightings in Jammu and Kashmir? The state is blanketed by snow in January and February when temperatures can drop below 0 degree Celsius. March marks the arrival of spring, and Kashmir usually experiences rainfall in the months of March and April, followed by summer in May[…]
Read MoreReptiles Rescued From The Most Unusual Places!
Wildlife SOS works relentlessly to save India’s wildlife, through our helplines which run 24x7 in four regions of the country, namely Delhi-NCR, Agra, Vadodara and Jammu & Kashmir. During rescue operations, our various Rapid Response Units have had their fair share of unusual encounters. Reptile rescues form a large part of some of the most […]
Read MoreHyena Injured In Road Accident Undergoes Treatment At Wildlife SOS Rescue Centre
Another day, and another wild animal becomes a victim of linear infrastructure. With roads cutting through natural landscapes, a Striped hyena recently had a close brush with death after getting hit by a speeding vehicle. The unfortunate incident occurred on the Pune-Nashik highway in Manchar Forest Range located in Ambegaon taluka of Pune[…]
Read MoreStaff Profile: Swaminathan Shamugavelu
The unflappable demeanor, infectious laughter, and optimistic spirit of Mr. Swaminathan Shamugavelu belie the arduous tasks he tackles every day as a wildlife biologist at Wildlife SOS. Mr. Swaminathan has ventured into the dense forests of Chhattisgarh to radio collar a wild elephant, traversed rocky terrains to study sloth bears, and[…]
Read MoreAwareness Workshop At Mercedes-Benz By Wildlife SOS
In a bizarre event that took place in March 2022, employees of the Mercedes-Benz factory in Chakan, Maharashtra found a leopard wandering in their midst. Bewildered, the employees were unsure of how to tackle this situation. They contacted the Forest Department, who in turn alerted the Wildlife SOS team operating out of Manikhdoh Leopard Rescue[…]
Read MoreIntersectional Sustainability: Are We Doing it Right?
Carpooling, saving electricity, thrifting and buying e-vehicle are perhaps some of the most common ideas that pop up when we talk about “sustainable livelihood”. Perhaps this topic requires a broader line of thinking. We tend to overlook what indigenous communities have to contribute to this discussion. Let’s highlight the role they[…]
Read MoreA Peek Into Amphibian Life!
Evolution literally took a leap when the successors of fish began to occupy the land. Amphibians, an entire group that can transition between aquatic and land life, took over from the first land-inhabiting species of fish nearly 365 million years ago! Hopping from branches into puddles, there’s so much more to the amphibian world […]
Read MoreThe Secret Life Of Urban Wildlife
Cities are a hub of new beginnings and people from various walks of life move to cities in search of opportunities. This rural to urban migration has been seen throughout history as folks moved from the outskirts or suburbs into metropolitan areas in search of their big break. During the Industrial Revolution, we saw an exodus as people moved[…]
Read MoreThe Broken Reality Of A Fragmented Habitat
One of the most widely used jargons in conservation lingua franca is habitat fragmentation. When spoken about the threats faced by endangered or critically endangered animals, we can safely say that habitat fragmentation is a phrase which is recurring in almost every discourse. But fragmentation is an all-encompassing term which has many[…]
Read MoreWildlife SOS Rescues Leopard Who Strolled Into Mercedes-Benz India Plant
Imagine you work in a car manufacturing facility and one fine day, a wild cat decides to give you a visit. Sounds like fiction? Except, it’s all real. In a completely unexpected scenario, a leopard strolled into the Mercedes-Benz India factory in Chakan, located in Pune district of Maharashtra. This situation was quite unique in itself since it […]
Read MoreHouse Sparrow, The Ultimate Urban Dweller
“Everything that is is adaptive.” - Richard F. Johnston Our earliest memory of a bird - be it any bird - is that of a small, brown-coloured bird, hopping around the balcony. Morning and evening routines revolved around the bird's synchronised chirping, greeting us like clockwork. Most of the stories and poems we were told also mentioned[…]
Read MoreWhat The Future Holds For Life On Earth
'Farmer's friend' is the proverbial description of Rat snakes. Rodents that destroy crops and eat into stored rice are one of the many animals the non-venomous rat snakes (who aren't picky eaters) feed on. The snake holds a specific place in the food chain as tertiary consumers which mean they are carnivores that eat other smaller animals and[…]
Read MoreKnow Your Indian Wild Cats
While many know of Wildlife SOS’ leopard conservation efforts, a little-known fact is that we have also had the opportunity to study and work with tigers, lions, and some of the lesser-known Indian wild cats such as the Rusty-spotted cat, Jungle cat, and Leopard cat. India is a nation blessed with a rich natural heritage and[…]
Read MoreBearing The Brunt Of Humans In Jammu & Kashmir
The year was 2006. An Asiatic Black Bear was burnt alive. Yes, you need to read that twice. It was probably one of the darkest days in the history of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) but still it eluded major media coverage. The visuals seemed as if the whole act was a product of some dystopian future. People were seen chasing the bear after it[…]
Read MoreMonkeys And Cities: The Urban Wildlife Syndrome
What picture would you build in your head for a “monkey-human relationship”? A primate, probably in the midst of a road, grabbing a banana from your hand. Let’s dig deeper into this picture of yours. Once occupying the faraway lands, amongst the lush greens of forests, primates are now parading across major Indian cities. Of[…]
Read MoreHow Children Can Revolutionize Wildlife Conservation?
Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first prime minister, was known for his love for children and animals; So much so that on the occasion of Nehru’s birthday, India observes a day dedicated to the nation’s children. Nehru’s attitude towards children was accurately captured in a letter he once wrote to the children of India. He said,[…]
Read MoreSebastian: The Bear Rescued Three Times!
Sonamgarg literally translates to a “ golden meadow.” True to its name, this picturesque valley located in Kashmir is a sight for sore eyes. In ancient times, Sonamgarg was a part of the famous silk route that connected India to Tibet. Today, Sonamgarg is right at the boundary of Kashmir, making it a strategic location for military defense[…]
Read MoreWeapon of War: Snare Injures a Sloth Bear in Karnataka
Rapid urbanization, habitat encroachment, poaching, hunting, and a myriad of other anthropogenic pressures have transformed the lush green forests that India’s wildlife once called home into dreary battlefields. Meticulously laid across these battlefields, camouflaged in the dirt, lies an illegal hunting device as lethal as a weapon of[…]
Read MoreBaby Rusty-Spotted Cats Reunited with their mother in Maharashtra
Like in most of Maharashtra, spotting a leopard in Chincholi village located in the Ambegaon division of Pune, is a common occurrence. Displaced by habitat encroachment, rapid urbanization, and other anthropogenic pressures, leopards come into conflict with humans as they venture out of their natural habitat in search of shelter and prey. These[…]
Read MoreWildlife SOS Celebrates 67th National Wildlife Week
This year marked the 67th National Wildlife Week celebrations in India, observed from October 2nd to October 8th with an aim to generate country-wide awareness on the importance of all forms of wildlife and their conservation. A long-term ally of the mission, Wildlife SOS joined hands with various State Forest Departments to spread awareness[…]
Read MoreCompassionate Villagers Aid Wildlife SOS In Rescuing A Drowning Leopard
H.E Luccock famously said, "No one can whistle a symphony. It takes a whole orchestra to play it." Surprisingly, the same can be said for rescuing wild animals. No person alone can rescue a wild animal in distress; it takes a village (literally). Wildlife SOS has witnessed this first hand, when we recently worked in tandem with a village rescue[…]
Read MoreCrocodile City: Rescuing Crocodiles in Vadodara
Vadodara, previously known as Baroda, is a mystical city brimming with heritage and culture. Once under the rule of dynasties, Vadodara has transformed into an industrial metropolis thumping with the rhythm of modern-day life. Expansive land, forts, and palaces have been replaced with tall modern buildings. With the Vishwamitri river gushing […]
Read MoreThe Week That Was: Jammu and Kashmir
The snow-peaked mountains and mesmerising scenery of Jammu and Kashmir are more than just a sight for sore eyes. Due to its vast variation in geographical structure, climate and altitude, the picturesque highland houses a multitude of diverse flora and fauna. Today, Jammu and Kashmir is home to some of India’s most elusive species of birds,[…]
Read MoreOrphaned Baby Civets Rescued by Wildlife SOS
Known as a gravedigger (Kabar Bijju) in Delhi, Baby stealer (Bhaam) in Kolkata, and Onion thief (Kandechor) in Maharashtra - the Asian Palm Civet has a myriad of epithets attached to it. Some see the rare wild animal as a “bad omen” while others consider it to be a pest - a nuisance to the daily rhythm of urban life. Superseded […]
Read MoreLeopard Conflict Mitigation Workshop for Village Volunteers in Maharashtra
Not many have heard of Chakan, a small town nestled between Pune and Nashik. This census town is considered one of the fastest-growing industrial areas in India with a rapidly expanding automobile and sugar cane industry. Yet, not every citizen is benefitting from the rapid industrialization and urbanization of Chakan. As land for sugar[…]
Read MoreWhat Should You Do When You Find An Animal in Distress?
To preserve a healthy ecological balance on our planet, human beings need to come together to protect our wildlife. Each species serves its own unique purpose in the food chain. As time moves forward, we’ve had to adapt to our current climate. Rapid urbanisation and habitat modification redefined the lines between cities and forests. Our[…]
Read MoreProtecting Wildlife Through CSR Approach
Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a business approach involving the concept of sustainable development to the corporate world. It is also often referred to as business responsibility and an organization’s action on environmental, ethical, social and economic issues. The term CSR itself came into common use in the early 1970s. However, […]
Read MoreMan v/s Wild: Wildlife SOS’s groundbreaking efforts for leopard conservation in Jammu and Kashmir
Human encroachment in the form of gentrification, industrialization and rapid urbanization has robbed Indian leopards of their natural habitat. However, the majestic cat that was once unconfined to roam the dense forests of Jammu and Kashmir is now destitute. Over time, their native territories have been replaced by densely populated human[…]
Read MoreAre We Celebrating The Wrong Side Of Conservation?
Rogue Herd On The Move! 15 wild elephants move across China! Where are the elephants in China heading? These are some of the most common headlines we have come across in the past few weeks. In a country as vast as China, home to a population of nearly 300 wild elephants, why is the movement of this herd raising eyebrows for conservationists[…]
Read MoreDriving Away India’s Wildlife: Striped Hyena Struggles for Life After Hit & Run
Earlier this month, an adult striped hyena was found critically injured in Bhilawali village, located in Kheragarh, Agra. A passerby had found the hyena in an unresponsive state on a field 500m from the road, after being hit by a speeding vehicle. Perturbed by the critical state of the hyena, the concerned passerby immediately called the[…]
Read MoreCrypto Can Do Great Things
DONATING CRYPTO CURRENCY IS EASY and CAN SAVE ON TAXES Wildlife SOS USA has partnered with The Giving Block to make donating crypto easy! We are able to accept over 60+ cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Dogecoin (DOGE), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Tezos (XTZ), Gemini Dollar (GUSD), Solana (SOL). Select Crypto in the form below[…]
Read MoreLife Lessons Humans Can Learn From Leopards
Known for their magnificent golden, speckled bodies and graceful hunting techniques, the Indian Leopard is a bewitching majesty in its own, right? Unfortunately, human intrusion such as habitat encroachment, rapid urbanization, and man-animal conflict has stripped them of their natural habitat. As we work together to help conserve the natural[…]
Read MoreWorld Wetlands Day: Wildlife SOS participates at the Bird Festival
A ‘Wetland’, as the name suggests, is a land that is inundated by water – either permanently or seasonally and is a rich ecosystem for many species to thrive in. Each season brings with it a new form of wetland as the dynamic habitat changes throughout the year. Wetlands comprise a surprisingly large number of habitats – from rivers and[…]
Read MoreWhy You Should Not Feed Monkeys
With their beguiling eyes and swift movements, Rhesus Macaques can be commonly spotted swinging from one branch to another in the wild, surrounded by their troop. However, when they are driven out of their natural habitat and put in urban spaces, they are spotted jumping from one building to another, breaking into houses in hunger and exhaustion[…]
Read MoreWhy are Wildlife Corridors so Important for Conservation?
You have probably heard about the importance of wildlife corridors to the sustainability of wildlife populations. But what exactly is a wildlife corridor and why are they so important to wildlife populations? To fully grasp the importance of wildlife corridors one must first have an understanding of habitat fragmentation. Habitat fragmentation[…]
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