Project

Description

Project on Slender Lorises

Project on Slender Lorises Introduction The Slender Loris (Loris tardigradus) is a small, nocturnal primate native to the forests of Southern India and Sri Lanka. These elusive creatures play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling insect populations and contributing to the health of their forest habitats. Despite their importance, they face severe threats from habitat destruction, illegal wildlife trade, and human interference. Rescue and Conservation Efforts by People for Animals (PfA) People for Animals (PfA), a leading wildlife rescue and conservation organization in Bangalore, has been actively involved in the rescue and rehabilitation of Slender Lorises. Over the past 12 years, PfA has rescued 67 lorises, primarily from North Bengaluru, especially in and around the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). This indicates that the area could be the last viable habitat for these primates in the city. Major Challenges Faced 1. Habitat Loss: Rapid urbanization has led to deforestation, severely reducing the natural habitat of Slender Lorises. 2. Illegal Wildlife Trade: Lorises are often captured and sold in illegal pet markets, despite being protected under the Wildlife Protection Act of India. 3. Human-Animal Conflict: Uninformed individuals often mistake them for harmful creatures, leading to unnecessary rescues or harm. 4. Resource Constraints: The rescue, medical care, rehabilitation, and release of these primates require significant financial and infrastructural resources. Community Engagement and Awareness Programs To ensure the long-term conservation of Slender Lorises, PfA conducts extensive educational outreach programs targeting: • School Students: Raising awareness among children to instill a sense of responsibility towards wildlife conservation. • Academic Institutions: Educating students and faculty from IISc, GKVK, and other institutions about the significance of Slender Lorises. • Local Communities: Engaging residents and stakeholders to reduce human-induced threats to these primates. Requirements for Effective Conservation To continue and expand these efforts, PfA requires: • Medical Facilities: Advanced veterinary care for rescued lorises, including diagnostic tools, medication, and rehabilitation spaces. • Funding and Resources: Financial support to sustain rescue operations, habitat restoration, and awareness campaigns. • Government and Public Support: Stronger policies and collaboration with governmental bodies to protect these primates from illegal trade and habitat destruction. Conclusion Slender Lorises are an integral part of our ecosystem and require urgent conservation efforts to prevent their disappearance from Bengaluru. With the support of institutions, communities, and policymakers, we can ensure a safe and thriving future for these remarkable primates. Join us in our mission to protect the Slender Loris and preserve our urban wildlife!

Birds Entangled in Chinese Manja

Project: Birds Entangled in Chinese Manja Introduction Chinese manja is a synthetic kite-flying thread coated with glass or other harmful substances. While it is popular for its strength, it poses severe threats to wildlife, humans, and the environment. People for Animals (PFA) Bengaluru actively rescues birds and animals injured by Chinese manja, advocating for its ban and promoting safe alternatives. Dangers of Chinese Manja 1. Injury and Fatality: o The sharp glass coating can cut through the delicate skin of birds, leading to fatal injuries. o Small birds get entangled in manja threads, restricting movement, leading to starvation and death. 2. Threat to Humans and Other Animals: o The thread can cause deep cuts to motorcyclists and pedestrians. o It can entangle other animals, causing severe distress and injuries. 3. Environmental Damage: o Disposed manja remains in trees, on roads, and in water bodies, harming wildlife. o It pollutes the soil and water when not disposed of properly. Preventing the Use of Chinese Manja 1. Say No to Chinese Manja o Celebrate Makar Sankranti and other kite festivals in an eco-friendly manner. o Use traditional cotton threads instead of synthetic manja. 2. Report Illegal Sales o Despite bans in many regions, Chinese manja is still sold and used. o Citizens should report illegal sales to authorities to curb its usage. 3. Dispose of Kite Strings Responsibly o Avoid leaving kite strings in open areas, trees, and water bodies. o Collect and safely dispose of used strings to prevent harm to wildlife and humans. 4. Legal Action Against Chinese Manja o The Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita 2023 categorizes the use of Chinese manja as a punishable offense. o Penalties include a fine of INR 5,000 or imprisonment of up to one year. Impact of Chinese Manja Despite bans, Chinese manja continues to be used, especially during kite festivals. The consequences include an increasing number of bird rescues, fatal injuries, and environmental pollution. Stricter enforcement of laws and awareness campaigns are necessary to eliminate its usage. Conclusion Chinese manja poses a significant threat to birds, humans, and the environment. Organizations like PFA Bengaluru play a crucial role in rescuing and rehabilitating injured birds while advocating for a ban on this dangerous material. By choosing safer alternatives and reporting illegal sales, we can collectively work towards a cruelty-free and environmentally safe celebration of kite festivals.

Operation Quench Thirst

Operation Quench Thirst Introduction Operation Quench Thirst is a vital initiative by People for Animals (PFA) aimed at providing water to wildlife during extreme heatwaves. With rising temperatures and increasing habitat encroachment, access to water sources for wild animals has become limited. This program ensures that wildlife has access to water, reducing the risks associated with dehydration and minimizing human-wildlife conflict. Objectives of the Program • To help wild animals survive extreme heatwaves by ensuring access to water. • To prevent animals from wandering into human settlements in search of water, reducing the risk of predation by domestic dogs. • To prevent injuries to animals that may occur when they leap onto hard concrete surfaces in their search for water. Implementation Strategies Operation Quench Thirst is carried out through a well-structured plan that involves coordination with the forest department and local stakeholders. The key activities of the program include: 1. Filling Concrete Tanks: PFA, in collaboration with the forest department, refills existing concrete water tanks in forested areas. 2. Placing Water Receptacles: Special receptacles are placed in strategic locations within the forest to provide water access to animals. 3. Replenishing Water Points: Regular trips are made to monitor and refill water points to ensure a continuous supply. 4. Filling Tubs, Trenches, and Watering Holes: PFA ensures that natural and artificial water collection areas remain filled during peak summer months. 5. Using Water Tankers: In critical areas, water tankers are deployed to fill up lakes and water bodies to sustain wildlife. 6. Lake Deepening Initiatives: PFA plans to deepen some lakes with external funding to enhance rainwater storage and provide a long-term water source for wildlife. Operational Timeline Operation Quench Thirst is primarily implemented during summer months when heatwaves pose a severe threat to wildlife. The program has successfully provided water in several locations, including the Turahalli Forest, ensuring the survival of many animals during extreme weather conditions. Impact of the Program The program has had a significant impact on wildlife conservation by: • Reducing mortality rates among wild animals due to dehydration. • Preventing human-wildlife conflicts by ensuring animals remain within forested areas. • Supporting biodiversity conservation by maintaining a stable habitat for various species. Future Plans PFA aims to expand the program by: • Increasing the number of water receptacles in different forested regions. • Raising funds to deepen more lakes to enhance their water storage capacity. • Strengthening partnerships with the forest department and other conservation organizations to ensure sustained implementation. Conclusion Operation Quench Thirst is a crucial wildlife conservation initiative that addresses the urgent need for water supply during heatwaves. Through continued efforts and community support, PFA is committed to ensuring the well-being of wild animals by providing them with a vital resource—water. The success of this program highlights the importance of proactive conservation measures in safeguarding our natural heritage.