Saving Wolves: From Misunderstanding to Conservation

Wildlife experts shed light on the empathetic nature of wolves and the critical need for their conservation amid ongoing attacks in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh. Government efforts, including 'Operation Bhediya,' aim to capture the wolves responsible for recent incidents. Experts emphasize wolves' social structure, cultural significance, and the necessity to change negative perceptions.

In a bid to curb the escalating wolf-human conflicts, wildlife experts are advocating for a shift in perception about wolves. The empathetic pack animals are on the brink of extinction due to frequent attacks in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh, which prompted the government to launch 'Operation Bhediya' to capture the responsible wolves.

In Bahraich's Mahsi tehsil, fatal attacks have left 10 people dead, including nine children, and around three dozen injured. With the area declared a 'wildlife disaster,' state authorities have rescued five wolves so far and are searching for a sixth.

Leading the operation, Sanjai Pathak criticized the negative portrayal of wolves, underlining their shy, monogamous, and socially complex nature. Wolves hold cultural significance in parts of India, and experts stress the importance of changing their negative image to ensure their conservation.

(With inputs from agencies.)