The heavy monsoon rains and flooding in Delhi are forcing reptiles to leave their natural shelters. As a result, more snakes and monitor lizards are turning up in unexpected places such as metro stations, offices, and residential colonies. Wildlife rescuers say they have been receiving a steady rise in distress calls across the city.
Monitor Lizard Found at Metro Station
On Friday, staff at Mayur Vihar-1 metro station were shocked to see a monitor lizard inside the pantry, as they immediately contacted Wildlife SOS, an NGO that runs a Rapid Response Unit. A rescue team reached the site, safely captured the reptile, and carried out a medical check-up before preparing it for release.
Why Floods Push Reptiles Into Human Spaces
Experts explain that heavy rainfall and waterlogging destroy the burrows and natural hiding spots of reptiles. With no dry ground left, these creatures seek shelter in human spaces. “Heavy rainfall and potential flooding force reptiles out of their natural homes, and they end up seeking dry corners in human spaces. Monitor lizards are harmless and vital to the ecosystem, but because of fear, people often mistake them for dangerous,” said Kartick Satyanarayan, co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS.
The Ecological Importance of Reptiles
Wildlife experts stress that reptiles play an important role in balancing the ecosystem. “They play an important ecological role but sadly, are misunderstood,” said Geeta Seshamani, co-founder and secretary of Wildlife SOS.
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She added that reptiles like monitor lizards help control rodent and insect populations, making them important allies in maintaining urban balance.
Fear and Misconceptions Among People
Despite being harmless, monitor lizards often create panic when spotted in public spaces. Wildlife SOS says that fear and myths around reptiles make people believe they are dangerous. Experts urge citizens to stay calm and call rescue helplines instead of harming the animals.
