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Wildlife in the City: Rescue & Coexistence

byKaran SolankiBased in Mumbai; Travels across India for filmmaking projectsStarts from₹20,000 per 8-hour shiftView full gallery

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.

Experienced Mumbai-based wildlife rescuer and photographer. — Approved by the tribe
K

Karan Solanki

Based in Mumbai; Travels across India for filmmaking projectsStarts from ₹20,000 per 8-hour shift

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.

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FeaturedMy Passion for SnakesConservation in Focus: Stories from the FieldThe Avian World: Portraits of Indian BirdsCoastal & Marine EncountersBeyond Snakes: Lizards, Frogs & AmphibiansThe Art of the Shot: Technique & PerspectiveSmall Wonders: Insects & InvertebratesMy Journey as a Filmmaker & Rescuer

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Wildlife PhotographyUrban Wildlife Rescue & Management
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