crested serpent eagle

October 2025 - Wildlife Rescue Stories

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October 2025 brought significant rescue challenges, from flood-related emergencies in North Bengal to human–wildlife conflict in expanding settlements. Through 37 interventions, the Animal Protector Program supported and rescued 37 wild animals, including reptiles, birds, small mammals, and an Indian One-Horned Rhino.

October brought with it a series of intense challenges—from floods in North Bengal to human–wildlife conflict in fast-expanding settlements. Yet through every emergency call, every long-distance rescue, and every night operation, one truth shone through: your compassion saves lives. 

This month, through 37 interventions, our team rescued and supported 37 wild animals—from snakes and geckos to birds of prey and even a distressed Indian One-Horned Rhino struggling to survive the floods. Each rescue was a race against time. Each animal carried a story of fear, survival, and hope. And each one found safety because you chose to stand with us. 

Below are four of the most powerful stories from October—stories that show what your support makes possible.

The Flood-Displaced Giant — Indian One-Horned Rhino Rescue

Date: 10 October 2025 
Location: Pundibari, Coochbehar 
Species: Indian One-Horned Rhino (1)

Heavy floods in North Bengal forced many wild animals to flee their submerged habitats. One terrified Indian One-Horned Rhino wandered deep into human settlements—panicked, exhausted, and dangerously disoriented. Recognizing the urgency, the Forest Department called our team for help. 

Five of our responders travelled from different districts of North Bengal to assist. The rhino, stressed and highly defensive, required coordinated efforts, strategic positioning, and absolute calm. After a challenging operation, the animal was safely guided, restrained, and transported. 

By the next day, this flood-affected giant walked back into safety—released into the forests of Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary

Because you cared, one of India’s most iconic species returned home. 

Indian one horned rhino, rescued by World Animal Protection Indian Volunteers

The Silent Shadow — Crested Serpent Eagle Rescue

Date: 04 October 2025 
Location: Dinhata, Coochbehar 
Species: Crested Serpent Eagle (1) 

Amid paddy fields near Dinhata, a local farmer spotted a Crested Serpent Eagle unable to fly. Its wings drooped, and its movements were sluggish—likely due to exhaustion or collision. With threats from people, dogs, and vehicles all around, the bird was extremely vulnerable. 

Our team quickly intervened and transported the eagle to safety. After a thorough examination and a period of rest and supportive care, the majestic raptor regained strength. Its sharp eyes, restored grip, and strong wingbeats signaled full recovery. 

Watching the eagle take flight once again—soaring above the fields where it once lay helpless—was nothing short of breathtaking. 

This freedom was made possible by your compassion. 

Saved From the Illegal Trade Trap — Tokay Gecko Rescue

Date: 07 October 2025 
Location: Pundibari, Coochbehar 
Species: Tokay Gecko (1)

A Tokay Gecko, a species frequently targeted in illegal wildlife trade, had taken refuge inside a household. Because of heightened trafficking pressures, even a simple rescue demands caution.
After alerting the Forest Department, our team safely captured the gecko, conducted a quick health assessment, and ensured it was not injured or stressed. It was later transferred to the authorities for relocation to a safer natural habitat. 

Small, shy, and often misunderstood—this little life was protected from a dark fate.

Your support helps shield vulnerable species from the trafficking networks that threaten them. 

a picture of Tokay Gecko while rescuing

A Tiny Fighter — Indian Palm Squirrel Rescue

Date: 19 September 2025 
Location: Debipur, North 24 Parganas 
Species: Indian Palm Squirrel (1)

A young Indian Palm Squirrel, attacked by a stray cat, was found trembling and weak by local residents. They immediately contacted our team. While the squirrel had no major injuries, the stress and shock were severe enough to make immediate release unsafe. 

For six days, our caregivers provided gentle rehabilitation—nutritious meals, a quiet space, and careful monitoring. Slowly, the little squirrel regained strength and natural alertness. 

On 25 September, it dashed back into freedom, healthy and confident once more. 

Your kindness turned fear into a second chance.

Impact at a Glance — October 2025 

  • 37 interventions across multiple districts 
  • 37 wild animals rescued and supported
  • Species rescued this month included: 
    • Common Wolf Snake

    • Burmese Python 

    • Banded Krait 

    • Spectacled Cobra 

    • Tokay Gecko 

    • Indian One-Horned Rhino 

    • Crested Serpent Eagle 

    • Checkered Keelback 

    • And several others

Each rescue, no matter how large or small, brings us closer to a world where every wild animal is treated with compassion and respect.

A Message to Our Donors 

Every call we answer, every life we touch, every animal we rehabilitate—it all begins with you. 

Your generosity fuels rescue vehicles, medical supplies, rehabilitation spaces, and trained responders who show up when no one else can. For every frightened rhino, every injured bird, every trafficked reptile, and every vulnerable small animal, you are the reason their story doesn’t end in suffering. 

If these stories moved you, please consider renewing your support or becoming a monthly Animal Protector. Together, we can ensure that every life—big or small—gets the chance it deserves. 

Thank you for standing with us. 
Thank you for protecting wildlife. 
Thank you for believing every life matters. 

Want to Help?

Join us again this month. Protect the voiceless. Preserve the wild. Because every life matters.

Donate Now

Collage of Snakes rescued and rehabilitated by World Animal Protection volunteers

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