Bannerghatta National Park steps up wildlife protection with anti-snare drive

Bengaluru: In light of the customary practice of poaching during Hosatodaku — meaning "new beginnings" — celebrated a day after Ugadi, the Bannerghatta National Park (BNP), in collaboration with A Rocha India and other NGOs, conducted an anti-snare drive in the Bannerghatta area on Monday.

With a squad of about 15 members, including forest department officials and wildlife experts, the drive aimed to send a strong message to local communities that the area is being actively monitored and patrolled.

A forest range officer, who spoke with DH, said that only one small snare was found. According to him, such snares are generally set up to trap small animals like rabbits.

However, Sharath Babu, a wildlife consultant, noted that while snares are often intended for smaller animals, there have been instances where jackals and even leopards have been trapped. “Last month, during a similar anti-snare drive on the Tamil Nadu side of Bannerghatta, we found multiple snares,” he said.

Avinash Krishnan, Director of Conservation and CEO of A Rocha, stated that Monday’s patrol covered areas prone to poaching as part of their regular anti-snare efforts. “However, with the festival season underway, this special drive was conducted to ensure the safety of wildlife,” he added.