Exploring the Coastal Wildlife of Mumbai
Behind every wave on our local beaches lies a fragile ecosystem. I spend my time documenting the life—and the struggles—of the sea snakes and marine creatures that share our coastline.
This sea snake, discarded on the shore after being caught in a net, struggles to return to the water. Dehydration and heatstroke are major threats, and many don't make it back.
A heartbreaking but necessary image to share. This Hook-nosed Sea Snake was killed and hung on a boat out of fear. This highlights the urgent need for education among local fishing communities.
This File Sea Snake met the same tragic fate. These non-venomous snakes are often misunderstood, and my advocacy aims to prevent such unnecessary killings by promoting coexistence.
A Malacca Sea Snake washed ashore. The coast is also home to other marine life like sharks and anemones, all of which are impacted by human activity and pollution.
About this collection
When I find sea snakes washed up on the shore, they are often suffering from heatstroke or dehydration after being discarded by fishing nets. If you ever spot a stranded sea snake or marine animal on a beach, please keep your distance and contact me immediately. Timing is critical for their survival, and professional handling ensures both the animal and you stay safe.
Mumbai’s coastline is far more than just a place for walks. It is a vibrant, struggling home for species like the Hook-nosed Sea Snake and the File Sea Snake. Unfortunately, these reptiles often end up as bycatch in local fishing nets.
Many people fear sea snakes, leading to incidents where they are killed out of panic rather than left to return to the ocean. My goal with this documentation is to bridge the gap between fear and understanding.
- The Bycatch Reality: When fishermen pull these snakes from their nets, they are often thrown onto the sand. Because these are marine animals, they cannot survive long in the sun and heat of the beach.
- Conservation in Action: Whether I am photographing a Malacca Sea Snake or assisting with a rescue, the focus remains the same: ethical, humane treatment.
- Coexistence: We share this space with incredible biodiversity. From the Pearly Sea Anemone to the sea snakes in our waters, every creature plays a role in the health of our coast.
Understanding these animals is the first step toward better conservation. If you are interested in learning more about the wildlife that lives just beyond our shoreline or want to know what to do if you encounter an animal in distress, reach out. Let’s make our beaches safer for everyone, above and below the water.
Karan Solanki
I'm Karan. Wildlife is a family legacy for me, and I’ve spent my life learning to understand the animals others often fear. When I am not rescuing snakes from urban homes, you will find me on the coast documenting the marine life that makes Mumbai’s shores so special.
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