Wildlife in the City: Rescue & Coexistence
Behind the concrete of Mumbai lies a wild world. Here is how I document the animals that share our city and the urgent rescue work that keeps them—and us—safe.
This monsoon, Mumbai saw a spike in baby Indian Rock Python rescues. I created this film to explain why it's happening, linking it to habitat loss and showing how these young snakes navigate our urban landscape in search of food and shelter.
A behind the scenes look at a recent rescue of a baby Indian Rat Snake from a park in Mumbai. During heavy rains, many animals seek dry ground, which often brings them into close contact with people.
Releasing rescued snakes is the most rewarding part of the job. Here, we are releasing several snakes, including a Checkered Keelback, back into a suitable natural habitat, far from human conflict.
Another release, this time a Russell's Viper. We always ensure that rescued animals are released in a habitat that is safe for them and for any nearby human settlements, following all forest department protocols.
The tragic aftermath of the Makar Sankranti kite festival. This film shows the reality for countless birds injured by glass-coated manja. My goal is to use these powerful visuals to advocate for safer celebrations.
During our Makar Sankranti Bird Camp, we see the devastating impact of kite strings firsthand. Here, a young boy gets a close, gentle look at a rescued Barn Owl, a moment of connection that fosters future conservationists.
A close-up of a Black Kite injured by manja. These birds are powerful raptors, but they are helpless against the sharp kite strings. Our rescue camps provide critical care during this dangerous time.
Gently holding the talons of an injured kite. It's a reminder of the fragility of these strong birds and the responsibility we have to protect them from human-caused threats.
Documenting the injuries is a crucial part of our awareness campaigns. Every image tells a story and serves as evidence of the harm caused by kite flying with dangerous manja.
About Wildlife in the City: Rescue & Coexistence
When you see a snake in your Mumbai apartment, the first reaction is often panic. In my years of rescuing, I’ve learned these creatures are rarely intruders; they are usually just looking for a dry spot during the monsoon or escaping habitat loss in areas like Aarey and the mangroves. My work is not just about the rescue—it’s about documenting the moment to show you that a calm, ethical relocation is possible, and that living alongside wildlife in a city like ours is a responsibility we share.
The Urban Wild
Many Mumbaikars are surprised to learn that we share our skyline with migratory birds and our drainage lines with Indian Rock Pythons. My photography and filming are tools for advocacy. When I document a rescue, I am not just capturing a 'cool' moment with an animal; I am showing you the impact of rapid construction and pollution on local ecosystems.
Documenting the Reality
My process involves high-retention storytelling, designed to bridge the gap between fear and understanding. Whether I am filming a python hatchling in the rain or documenting the devastating, blood-sucking reality of manja (glass-coated kite string) on raptors during Makar Sankranti, my goal is the same: to make you stop, think, and care.
How I Work
Ethical wildlife photography comes first, always. I never lure animals or stress them for the perfect shot. I use macro lenses to capture the intricate details of a chameleon or telephoto zoom to observe a bird without disturbing its natural behavior.
My Areas of Focus
- Monsoon Rescues: Documenting the sudden influx of reptiles seeking shelter.
- Sankranti Awareness: Using visuals to fight for safer celebrations for birds.
- Urban Biodiversity: Showing why grasslands and mangroves are vital for everyone, not just the animals.
If you want to collaborate on a conservation project, need educational content, or have questions about living safely with urban wildlife, let’s talk.
Karan Solanki
I’m Karan. Wildlife has been my world since I was 8 years old, starting with rescues alongside my dad. I don't just take photos; I tell the real stories of the animals that share our city—from the pythons in our drains to the birds fighting against manja.
Looking for something else?
You can search for specific services or types of wildlife photography below.
More from Wildlife & Conservation Filmmaking by Karan Solanki