The BBMP’s wildlife rescue team is grappling with a surge in emergency calls as scorching temperatures lead to increased snake sightings and birds falling from the sky in Bengaluru.
Increased Rescue Operations
The team, consisting of seven rescuers, now receives nearly 150 calls daily, a significant jump from the 60 to 65 calls received in previous years. However, public awareness about wildlife rescue hotlines remains low, resulting in under-reporting of reptilian deaths.
Environmental Impact of Rising Temperatures
BLG Swamy, Deputy Conservator of Forests for all eight zones of the BBMP, highlighted an influx of snakes into homes, birds plummeting from the sky, and increased trouble caused by monkeys due to rising temperatures. Despite the surge in sightings, no snake deaths directly attributed to higher temperatures have been recorded thus far.
Wildlife Rescue Efforts
Prasanna Kumar, wildlife welfare warden for the BBMP’s forest wing, emphasized the recent rescues of various snake species, including the Indian cobra, Russell viper, and common krait. However, Kumar noted a bystander tendency among the public, where only a few individuals take responsibility for animal rescue efforts.
Impact of Urbanization on Snakes
Vattam Adithya, a Ballari-based snake rescuer, highlighted how urbanization has diminished natural snake habitats over time. Snakes, being ectothermic, struggle to adapt to temperatures above 30 to 32 degrees Celsius, especially with increased humidity. Adithya explained that snakes seek cooler environments during high humidity, prompting them to slither towards shaded areas.
Environmental Challenges
The recent brief rains in Kengeri, Anekal, and Bengaluru outskirts have intensified humidity, making it difficult for snakes to breathe. Adithya emphasized the importance of creating cooler environments for snakes amidst urbanization and rising temperatures to mitigate their distress.
