NGOs in Mumbai save wildlife that was abandoned in the cold

 The barn owl is one of the most impacted species since it can't obtain prey because it is less active in the winter.

Updated at 11:59 p.m. IST on January 2, 2023.

Mumbai: Due to the cold and a shortage of food, many street animals and birds are fighting for their lives as the city's temperatures plummet. In light of this, citizen volunteers and wildlife NGOs have started rescue efforts and developed protocols to be followed when people see animals in distress.

When residents discover starving and dehydrated animals finding refuge outside their homes between November and February, they call the city's animal rescuers on a regular basis. The founder of the wildlife non-profit RAWW (Resqink Association for Wildlife Welfare), Pawan Sharma, claimed that throughout the winter, they get at least five requests to rescue barn owls. "There is a deeper explanation why barn owls are more anxious in the winter," he said. Many of the creatures that make up the owls' primary food source during this time of year become less active at night when the temperature lowers. Although owls are noted for their stealthy flight, a less active prey often escapes undetected. Dehydration and famine result from the owls' inability to locate prey as a result.

A famished owl stays inactive even during the night, and if it doesn't get aid right away, it may stay that way for a long time. The creature out in the cold never needs assistance, but sometimes a warm, dry refuge is more than enough, it was said.

"During this season, if you see owls or other birds nesting on your balcony or parapet, let them stay there for the day or night. They frequently require some time to replenish their lost body heat, and being in a warm environment makes it easier for them to do this. You can contact the closest animal rescue organisation if they remain in that posture for an extended period of time since they may need assistance, Mr. Sharma noted.

He emphasised that it's crucial to determine whether the animal is indeed in distress and that forced rescues frequently cause the animals suffering and captivity stress.

"During this season, if you see owls or other birds nesting on your balcony or parapet, let them stay there for the day or night. Being in a warm environment helps them adapt better because they frequently need some time to recoup their lost body heat.