2 weeks Ago By Anjali Jhangiani
Pune: A security guard at the Khadakwasla dam wall security office on Sinhagad Road found a pangolin in a toilet during a routine washroom break in an unexpected wildlife encounter. The guard had never seen such a creature before, but acted swiftly. He secured the washroom and contacted RESQ Charitable Trust (CT) for assistance.
A member of the RESQ CT's team reached the scene within minutes of receiving the guard's distress call and rescued the pangolin carefully. The animal was transferred to Bavdhan's wildlife treatment transit centre, where it underwent a thorough medical examination and overnight observation. After being declared healthy, the pangolin was released into a remote habitat away from human settlement.
Head of rescue operations at RESQ CT Tuhin Satarkar said this was not an isolated case, but a call to acknowledge the increasing frequency of wildlife venturing into human-populated areas. "We've handled, at least, six similar pangolin rescues in recent months. These typically elusive and nocturnal creatures rarely approach human settlements, making these encounters particularly concerning," he said.
Satarkar highlighted the crucial role of community awareness in wildlife conservation efforts. "We urge public vigilance and prompt reporting of unusual wildlife sightings. Quick action can ensure their safe rescue and proper care," he added.
Pangolins are protected under the Indian wildlife law. The scaly-skinned mammals are known for their distinctive appearance and defensive behaviour of curling into a tight ball when threatened. The Maharashtra forest department has been actively working to combat pangolin smuggling, which remains one of the region's most serious wildlife crimes.
Assistant conservator of forests Deepak Pawar said, "Presence of a pangolin in a populated area serves as a reminder of the growing instances of wildlife-human interaction. The situation underscores the importance of public awareness and prompt action.".
