Much of India experienced heavy rainfall this year, particularly in September, leading to rising water levels and the widespread displacement of wildlife. In response, Wildlife SOS’s Rapid Response Unit was on the move to rescue animals in distress, and transport them to safer environments..
Flooding affected reptiles such as crocodiles in Gujarat that ventured from the Vishwamitri River into public spaces, creating concern among local communities. Owing to the cognisance and concern among residents, September also marked the rescue of Indian rock python hatchlings in Uttar Pradesh. In addition to these states, several challenging operations were carried out across Delhi-NCR and Jammu & Kashmir as well. The Rapid Response Units ensured the safe rescue and release of 416 animals from all 4 regions.
Delhi-NCR
An Indian peafowl was rescued from the Prime Minister’s residence in Delhi in September. It had wandered into the premises, leading the security staff to immediately contact Wildlife SOS. While the bird is famously known for its remarkable plumage, this particular peafowl’s feathers had been cruelly plucked out. The Rapid Response Unit immediately provided medical aid to the peafowl on site, after which, the bird was safely transported to the Wildlife SOS facility for further treatment. After consistent care given, the peafowl recovered and was successfully released back into the wild.
The Wildlife SOS rescue team addressed calls concerning 68 distressed avians over the month. A total of 34 mammals and 54 reptiles were also tended to by the team, taking the number of rescues made in September to 156.
Uttar Pradesh
Heavy rain in western Uttar Pradesh, particularly around Agra and Mathura, submerged natural reptile habitats, forcing snakes out into nearby urban areas. The Wildlife SOS Agra team responded to multiple calls, and rescued a whopping number of 108 displaced reptiles. Among the species saved were 33 Indian rat snakes, 20 spectacled cobras, and 10 Indian rock pythons.
One of the standout rescues by Wildlife SOS involved a massive 10-foot-long crocodile that had ventured into agricultural fields in Kabirpur Bagwala village, Etah. With assistance from the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department, the crocodile was safely relocated to its natural habitat after an hour-long operation.
Wildlife SOS also rescued 17 birds and 30 mammals, including 7 blue bulls (nilgai) and 20 rhesus macaques, ensuring their safety.
Gujarat
In Gujarat, the monsoon season led to an increase in crocodile sightings as their natural habitats were flooded, pushing these reptiles into urban areas. Wildlife SOS, in partnership with the Gujarat Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA) and the Gujarat Forest Department, conducted rescue operations throughout September, which included saving 3 mugger crocodiles.
One notable incident occurred at a cricket academy field near Rajmahal Compound in Vadodara, where a 5-foot-long mugger crocodile was trapped in a net. Owing to the team’s quick response, the crocodile was safely released back into the wild.
In addition to the 3 crocodiles, the team rescued 6 monitor lizards, 4 turtles, 1 tortoise and 35 snakes as well. Other rescues involved 25 birds and 10 mammals, including 3 monkeys and 1 squirrel. The continuous efforts of the Wildlife SOS team were crucial in mitigating the risks posed by urban flooding.
Jammu & Kashmir
Climate change has contributed to an increase in snake sightings across Jammu & Kashmir, where Wildlife SOS has been actively involved in rescuing reptiles from human-populated areas. In September, the team rescued 12 rat snakes, 4 Himalayan trinket snakes, and 3 Levantine vipers from various locations across the region. Two black kites found in distress were also given aid before they were released.
Thanks to the swift action of the Rapid Response Units, lives of animals are being given fair and focussed attention. Wildlife SOS continues to conduct numerous wildlife rescues each month across the country. Our Rapid Response Units are stationed in the following key regions and can be contacted for immediate assistance:
- Delhi-NCR: +91 9871963535
- Agra, Uttar Pradesh: +91 9917109666
- Vadodara, Gujarat: +91 9825011117
- Jammu & Kashmir: +91 7006692300, +91 9419778280
