You’ll definitely love visiting Wildlife SOS in Agra if you’re an animal lover. But trust us when we say this, the animals love this place a lot more. After all, the primary mission of Wildlife SOS is to rehabilitate and save wildlife that is suffering, being exploited for different reasons, or those living in unfavorable conditions.
In the beginning, their primary focus was to free Indian sloth bears (dancing bears) from the abusive clutches of the nomadic Kalandar tribe. But today, they’ve achieved numerous milestones. What we love about this place is that not only is it a great experience for wildlife enthusiasts, you get to see these creatures living happily and also interact with them. Here’s what you should know if you’re planning to visit the place.
Who Started Wildlife SOS?
It’s been over 25 years since Wildlife SOS came into existence. Back in 1995, it was wildlife biologist Kartick Satyanarayan and wildlife conservationist Geeta Seshamani who started this initiative. Kartick was always fond of animals and nature right from his childhood. It was after he grew older that he discovered and learned the various wrongful practices like capturing and enslaving animals, poaching, and many others. Kartick realized that something needed to be done.
Where Is It Located?
Wildlife SOS is just about a 30-minute drive away from Agra, on the National Highway 2, in Murunda. That’s the place where their Bear Sanctuary is situated. Getting there isn’t a big challenge either. You could drive there yourself, take a cab or there is also the option of taking a bus. Either way, it’s a short drive that’s supremely convenient. They do have more centers across the country if you wish to volunteer or simply get to experience wildlife.
Inside Wildlife SOS
If you visit the facility in Agra, you will definitely be awe-struck at the number of bears and elephants. If you’re particularly fond of elephants, you can also visit the Wildlife SOS elephant conservation center in the nearby Mathura! While the one in Agra is primarily a bear rehabilitation center, it also houses a few monkeys. Don’t be surprised if you come across some other animals too. After all, the place is meant to be a safe haven for animals.
They have special programs for different creatures such as sloth bears, elephants, leopards, moon bears, primates, and reptiles too. Each of these creatures is safely rehabilitated in a natural habitat that is favorable for them. You can also volunteer with Wildlife SOS and contribute to their cause.
What Makes Them Special?
Wildlife SOS gives you an opportunity to volunteer for them and contribute to the lives of these majestic creatures. You don’t even need to have any particular skills, they’ll train you in that regard. The best part is that you get to work closely with these amazing animals and take care of them and their habitat.
Moreover, Wildlife SOS also conducts several tribal rehabilitation programs to educate and aid tribals about wildlife and help them learn skills to financially support themselves, without having to exploit or abuse animals. They even focus their efforts towards mitigating conflicts between human beings and animals, be it due to deforestation or any other reason.
FAQs
How Can I Join Indian Wildlife SOS?
If you’d love to volunteer with Wildlife SOS, you can check out their website to download an application form and mail it to them.
Is Wildlife SOS A Good Charity?
Yes, Wildlife SOS is a good charity you can consider if you’re looking to do your bit to protect animals from exploitation.
How Can I Adopt A Wild Animal In India?
You can’t literally adopt a wild animal in India, but can definitely make a contribution to their care. In most cases, all you need to do is visit a zoo’s official website, choose an animal, and the duration you’d like to pay for their care. But we believe volunteering would be a more rewarding experience.
Can I Buy Elephant In India?
No, buying an elephant in India is no longer permitted.
How Many Days Should I Spend In Agra?
Ideally, you should be spending 2-3 days to see and experience everything in Agra. Also, you can visit the historical town of Fatehpur Sikri, which is about 35 km away from Agra.
