Rapid urbanization has brought humans and wildlife into closer contact than ever before. Conflict often arises from fear or misunderstanding. Here is how to handle common encounters.

Rhesus Macaque

Monkeys (Macaques & Langurs)

Primates are intelligent and opportunistic. Feeding them is the root cause of most conflicts.

  • Do NOT Feed: It makes them aggressive and dependent on humans.
  • Secure Bins: Use latch-proof dustbins to prevent foraging.
  • Eye Contact: Avoid direct staring; it is seen as a threat.
  • Grinning: Showing teeth is a sign of aggression to a monkey.

Snakes

Snakes are often found in gardens, drains, or old piles of debris. They are crucial for controlling rodent populations.

If You See A Snake

  1. Stop: Freeze movement. Snakes attack only when threatened.
  2. Back Away: Slowly move backwards to a safe distance (6ft+).
  3. Keep Eyes On It: Watch where it goes so you can tell the rescuer.
  4. Call Help: Call a professional snake rescuer. DO NOT try to catch it yourself.

Common Urban Species

  • Rat Snake (Dhaman): Non-venomous, fast, eats rats.
  • Spectacled Cobra (Naag): Venomous. Hood is distinctive.
  • Common Krait: Venomous, nocturnal.
  • Russell's Viper: Venomous, loud hissing sound.

Bats

Often feared due to movies, bats are harmless pollinators and insect controllers. If a bat flies into your home, turn off the fan (to prevent injury), open all windows, and switch off lights. It will fly out using echolocation.

Squirrels

The Three-Striped Palm Squirrel is ubiquitous. Baby squirrels often fall from trees during storms.

  • Baby Rescue: If you find a baby, wait and watch from a distance. The mother often comes back.
  • Hydration: Never force water into a baby's mouth; they aspiration pneumonia easily.
Indian Palm Squirrel 1 Indian Palm Squirrel 2

Emergency Rescue

Never handle wildlife bare-handed. They carry zoonotic diseases and can bite out of fear.