1,600 animals rescued by Wildlife SOS last year
The Wildlife SOS, Delhi's Rapid Response Unit, rescued nearly 1,600 wild animals, underscoring its tireless efforts to address the growing conflict between urbanisation and wildlife.
As extreme weather patterns exacerbate human-wildlife interactions, the 24x7 helpline (+91 9871963535) has become a vital lifeline for animals in distress across the capital.
Kartick Satyanarayan, co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS, emphasised the urgent need for coordinated action in urban areas. “Wildlife conservation in cities requires immediate response and collaboration. Our team is dedicated to rescuing, treating and ensuring the safety of wild animals,” Satyanarayan said.
The year began with a dramatic rescue when the Delhi Fire Department saved a golden jackal suffering from severe hypothermia after prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures. The animal was quickly transferred to Wildlife SOS for medical treatment. January and February’s extreme cold wave also led to an increase in bird rescues, with over 120 birds brought to safety.
A notable trend this year was the growing number of rescues in high-profile locations, including government premises. A dehydrated monkey was rescued from the Prime Minister's residence during Delhi's intense heatwave. Other significant rescues included a peacock injured by feral dogs and a rat snake found in a high-traffic area, demonstrating the expanding impact of human encroachments inwildlife habitats.
The summer heatwave further escalated the challenges faced by wildlife, with Wildlife SOS rescuing over 110 birds, including parakeets, sparrows, barn owls and black kites. "We saw a particularly high number of kite rescues — around 40," noted Geeta Seshamani, co-founder and secretary of the Wildlife SOS. "These animals exhibit signs of distress, such as laboured breathing and hyperthermia, making immediate intervention crucial."
In May, the organisation responded to a surge in heat-affected animals, rescuing over 40 birds and several mammals, including monkeys and squirrels, suffering from extreme heat. Symptoms observed included drooling, laboured breathing and conjunctivitis in some animals. The team also responded to unusual sightings, such as a 3-foot-long monitor lizard trapped in a window sill at DMRC Apartments in Sarita Vihar. After a careful and expert rescue, the reptile was safely relocated.
In a significant partnership with the Delhi Forest Department, Wildlife SOS also addressed wildlife trafficking, rescuing over 700 endangered birds in a raid at Jama Masjid market. The birds, including several species of parakeets and finches, were found cramped in tiny cages without food or water, awaiting sale to traders. The swift action by Wildlife SOS experts, who worked alongside the authorities, ensured the birds were transferred to larger enclosures for rehabilitation.
Throughout the year, Wildlife SOS rescued over 340 reptiles, including a 4-foot-long cobra from the President’s House and two pythons from the National Power Training Institute. These rescues further showcased the team’s expertise in handling complex and dangerous situations.
With human-animal conflict on the rise, particularly involving primates, Wildlife SOS remained vigilant, successfully rescuing over 300 mammals, including civets and golden jackals. These efforts are part of the organisation's broader mission to reduce conflicts between wildlife and urban populations, providing the much-needed medical care to distressed animals.
In reflecting on the year’s achievements, Satyanarayan noted, "Each rescue is a testament to the growing need for wildlife conservation in urban spaces. Our work wouldn't be possible without the support of citizens and collaborators, and we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of both wildlife and Delhi's residents."
The Wildlife SOS continues to be at the forefront of wildlife rescue in Delhi, dedicated to tackling the escalating challenges of urbanisation and climate change.
