Wildlife Do’s and Dont’s

  • Do not disturb wild animals. Wildlife is fun to watch but should be left alone
  • Never touch wild animals. Remember, they are wild and can bite or scratch
  • Do not try to help wildlife that is injured. Call a appropriate person
  • Do not touch or pick up wild animals that have died
  • Do not touch or pick up young animal; their parents are watching nearby
  • If a wild animal appears sick, or hurts you, call a appropriate person
  • Never feed wild animals
  • Do not EVER get too close to wild animals. There have been several times where animals attacked without the slightest warning. Be sure to research the animal and its signs of fear. Also, research how to approach the animal to make sure you don’t provoke it. There are always stories about photographers getting mauled by bears, lions, etc. Respect the wild animals and maintain a safe distance from them. Remember, you are in their home and they get first priority.
  • Do not play music, honk or speak loudly. Silence can help you hear wildlife
  • Do not litter the place with polythene bags, tetra packs and other such materials. They not only spoil the beauty of the park, but also may harm the animals. Take them back with you to be disposed off properly
  • Do not wear perfumes or any other strong smelling substances. The animals are sensitive to smell and it may arouse their curiosity
  • Do not collect any plants or animals. They belong to the forest and not in your gardens
  • Animals are generally shy and tend to hide when they see a human being. Please do not attempt to lure them out by throwing stones or other objects. Leave them in peace
  • Take strict precautions to guard against accidental fires caused through carelessness. Smoking and flash photography is prohibited in the wild (Forest, Sanctuaries, Park, etc)
  • All drivers and guides are given a set of instructions regarding the speed of the vehicle, the route to be followed, the distance to be kept from other vehicles and wild animals and time guidelines. Never encourage your driver to break these rules
  • Provide water for wildlife by putting up a birdbath. Keep it full of fresh, clean water
  • Watch wildlife that lives near your home. Learn the names of birds and animals. Make a list or draw pictures of animals you see
  • Ask an adult to help make a wildlife nesting box or create wildlife habitat
  • Wear colours that blend with the forest – khaki, brown and olive green are ideal colours to wear in a national park. Animals might get frightened when they see bright colours since they are not used to them
  • You should not deviate from the allotted routes or leave the road and drive cross- country, enter without proper tickets, enter before sunrise or stay after sunset.

Important: Do not forget to carry A mosquito repellent, sunscreen, antiseptic cream, hat, socks and shoes, binoculars, camera, extra film rolls, water bottle, warm clothing in winters.