PfA Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Centre

They say “blind as a bat,” but the truth is, bats see the world in ways we don’t. When Bengaluru’s traffic quiets and the city exhales, the sky belongs to them. Often misunderstood and unfairly linked to darkness and fear, and even vampires, bats are far from the monsters they’re made out to be. In reality, they play a vital role in maintaining the balance of our ecosystem and help humans in many ways.  Let’s dig deeper to learn more about these fascinating creatures and why they deserve our protection. There are over 1,400 species of bats in the world, and India is home to many of them. The most common ones are fruit bats and insect-eating bats . Fruit bats, also known as flying foxes, feed on fruits like guava, mango, and banana. They help spread seeds and pollinate plants. Insect-eating bats, on the other hand, feed on mosquitoes and other bugs acting as natural pest controllers. Bats make their homes in trees, caves, old buildings, and even under bridges . During the day, the...

How the city’s wild residents silently sustain our urban environment Bengaluru is often called the “Garden City,” but beyond its gardens and lakes lies a complex network of wild species that quietly keep the city’s natural systems in balance. From pollination and pest control to seed dispersal and waste management, urban wildlife plays an indispensable role in supporting the health and sustainability of our city . 1. Birds – Nature’s Gardeners and Pest Managers Species like bulbuls, barbets, sunbirds, and mynas help pollinate flowering plants and disperse seeds across fragmented green patches. Kites, crows, and owls serve as natural scavengers and rodent controllers, reducing disease risks and keeping ecosystems clean. At PfA, we frequently rescue injured kites and crows — a reminder of how closely these species coexist with our everyday lives, and how vital they are to Bengaluru’s ecological balance. 2. Bats – The Night Pollinators Though often misunderstood, fruit bats are essent...

In Bengaluru, snakes are not uncommon visitors. With rapid urban growth and shrinking green cover, snakes often find themselves in our backyards, gardens, or even inside homes. While this can be frightening, remember: most snakes are non-venomous , and they do not attack unless provoked. The key is to stay calm and know what to do. At People for Animals (PfA) Bengaluru , we respond to hundreds of snake rescue calls every month. Here’s a simple guide to help you handle a snake encounter safely. 1. Stay Calm and Do Not Panic Snakes are generally shy and avoid humans. Sudden movements, shouting, or attempts to chase them can agitate the snake.  2. Do Not Try to Catch or Kill the Snake Trying to handle a snake yourself is dangerous. Even non-venomous snakes can bite in self-defense, and mistaking one species for another is common. Killing snakes is also illegal under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 . 3. Maintain a Safe Distance Keep at least 6–8 feet away from the snake. Ensure chil...