In an unusual rescue operation in South Delhi, a mother civet cat and her offspring, known locally as toddy cats, were rescued from a residential house in Greater Kailash-2. The family that spotted the mammals in their store room panicked and contacted Wildlife SOS, a non-profit that frequently rescues snakes, birds and other animals that stray into human settlements.
A four-member team from the NGO reached the residence with safety nets and covered the entry points to prevent the animals from escaping into other rooms. After carefully luring the mother into a basket, they safely secured the young one. The duo was then taken to a rescue facility for a medical check-up and later released in a nearby forest.
The incident is a reminder that rapid urban expansion and habitat destruction are pushing wildlife to seek shelter and food near people’s homes. Civil authorities said Greater Kailash-2, which borders the Ridge forest, has seen an increase in such sightings. Often, people try to chase or harm the animals, leading to injuries for both sides.
Wildlife experts urge residents to keep doors and windows closed at night and avoid stacking fruit or waste that might attract civets. “Civets play a vital role in the ecosystem by dispersing seeds and controlling insect populations. If you encounter one, avoid provocation and call a rescue helpline,” said a senior conservationist involved in the operation.
The rescued animals showed no injuries and were in good health, which suggests they hadn’t been trapped for long. Civets are nocturnal and usually avoid humans, but deforestation and construction drive them to adapt. South Delhi’s councillor promised to improve garbage management and support wildlife awareness programmes. Residents welcomed the safe release of the civets, noting that the team’s quick response prevented any harm. The episode highlights the importance of peaceful coexistence and the need for proper channels to handle wildlife encounters in the capital.
