Torrential rains and flooding in Delhi have forced wildlife out of their natural habitats, leading to surprising encounters across the city. From metro stations to residential colonies, reptiles like monitor lizards are appearing in unexpected places, prompting a surge in distress calls to wildlife rescuers this monsoon season.

On Friday, a monitor lizard was discovered inside the pantry area of the Mayur Vihar-1 metro station, startling staff who quickly alerted Wildlife SOS. The NGO’s Rapid Response Unit promptly arrived, safely rescuing the reptile. After a thorough medical check-up, the lizard was prepared for release back into a suitable habitat, according to a statement from Wildlife SOS.

Kartick Satyanarayan, co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS, explained, “Heavy rainfall and flooding displace reptiles from their burrows, pushing them into human spaces in search of dry shelter. Monitor lizards are harmless and play a crucial role in ecosystems, yet fear often leads to misunderstanding.” He emphasized the need for public awareness about these creatures, which are vital for maintaining ecological balance.

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Geeta Seshamani, co-founder and secretary of Wildlife SOS, added, “Monitor lizards help control rodent and insect populations, serving as natural pest controllers. Unfortunately, they are often misjudged as dangerous.” She urged residents to report sightings to professionals rather than harming these misunderstood creatures.

Wildlife SOS reported that their helplines are receiving daily calls about reptiles stranded in homes, offices, and public spaces due to waterlogging. The organization has intensified its efforts to rescue and relocate these animals, ensuring their safety while educating the public about their ecological importance. As Delhi grapples with monsoon-related challenges, these incidents highlight the growing intersection of urban life and wildlife, underscoring the need for coexistence and compassion.

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