Love in the Wild: How Human Actions During Breeding Season Can Save (or Harm) Bengaluru’s Wildlife

February is often associated with love, bonding, and new beginnings. But beyond human celebrations, this month also marks the beginning of a crucial phase in the lives of Bengaluru’s urban wildlife — the breeding and nesting season.

For many birds, reptiles, and small mammals that share our city, the months between February and early summer determine the survival of their next generation. During this time, well-meaning human intervention can either protect wildlife—or unintentionally put them at risk.

At PfA Wildlife Hospital, we witness this delicate balance every year.

When Love Means Giving Space

As the breeding season begins, animals become more visible, vocal, and active. Birds are building nests on balconies and trees, snakes are seen more frequently as they search for mates, and young animals begin to explore the world around them.

This visibility often leads to concern — and sometimes panic.

A common misconception is that any baby animal seen alone needs rescue. In reality, many of the “rescues” we receive during this season involve:

• Fledgling birds that have naturally left the nest but are still learning to fly
  
  

• Juvenile animals waiting for their parents to return
  
  

• Snakes that are simply passing through human spaces as part of natural behaviour
  
  

Removing these animals unnecessarily can separate them from their parents, reduce their chances of survival, and increase stress.

Sometimes, the most loving action is not intervening immediately.

                             

When Intervention Is Necessary

That said, there are situations where timely action saves lives. Citizens should contact a trained wildlife rescue team if:

• An animal is visibly injured or bleeding
  
  

• A bird is entangled in thread, wire, or manja
  
  

• A nest has been destroyed or fallen
  
  

• An animal is trapped indoors or in man-made structures
  
  

• There is an immediate threat from traffic, predators, or construction activity
  
  

In these cases, calling PfA’s free wildlife rescue helpline ensures that animals receive the right care — without causing unintended harm.

Urban Wildlife Needs Informed Compassion

Bengaluru’s wildlife has adapted remarkably to urban life, but breeding season is when they are most vulnerable. Loud disturbances near nests, tree trimming, construction activity, and unplanned relocations can have long-term impacts on entire generations of animals.

Informed compassion means:

• Observing quietly before acting
  
  

• Keeping pets away from young wildlife
  
  

• Educating children that not every animal needs “saving”
  
  

• Sharing accurate information instead of panic-driven advice
  
  

How Citizens Can Show Love This Season

You don’t need to be a rescuer to make a difference. Simple actions can go a long way:

• Save and share PfA’s wildlife rescue helpline number
  
  

• Share awareness posters in apartments, schools, and offices
  
  

• Encourage RWAs to delay tree cutting during nesting months
  
  

• Talk about wildlife behaviour with friends and family
  
  

• Choose patience over panic
  
  

Every informed decision helps protect not just one animal, but entire ecosystems.

A City That Cares

For nearly three decades, PfA Wildlife Hospital has responded to thousands of calls from concerned citizens. The strongest rescues happen when people and professionals work together — when compassion is paired with understanding.

This February, as we celebrate love in all its forms, let’s remember the wildlife that shares our city with us.

Sometimes, love means stepping in.
Sometimes, love means stepping back.
And always, love means choosing awareness.