Mathura, 08 May 2026 (UTN). Two iconic birds rescued by Wildlife SOS and Uttar Pradesh forest department; receiving emergency intensive care at NGO’s transit facility In a joint rescue effort, the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department and Wildlife SOS rescued two important waterbirds, a Sarus crane and a juvenile Flamingo, from separate locations in Mathura. Both are currently receiving intensive care at a Wildlife SOS transit facility.
The Sarus crane was found in distress on a farm in Laxmi Nagar, Mathura. Alert farmers who spotted the bird immediately informed the forest department, which in turn contacted Wildlife SOS for assistance. Upon arrival, the Wildlife SOS Rapid Response Unit found the crane with a severely injured right wing, believed to have been caused by entanglement in wire fencing. The bird is receiving intensive treatment for the injury, and the wound is gradually healing. However, the bone damage to the wing is irreversible, and the crane will remain under intensive monitoring. The possibility of release will be assessed based on the bird’s recovery and long-term mobility.
The young flamingo was discovered inside an army cantonment area in Mathura, unable to fly. Army personnel immediately transported the bird to the nearest forest department office, from where it was later shifted to the Wildlife SOS transit facility after initial treatment. Learning about the bird’s condition, the NGO’s Rapid Response Unit was mobilised immediately.
The flamingo showed no external injuries but was found to be suffering from severe heat stress and dehydration — likely caused by the extreme temperatures. The bird is currently receiving intensive care, including proper hydration, nutrition and multivitamin supplementation. As the flamingo is a juvenile and requires specialised care and close observation, the release will be determined once the bird has sufficiently recovered.
The Sarus crane (Antigone antigone) is the world's tallest flying bird and is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The greater flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) remains a species of significant ecological value, particularly as an indicator of wetland health. Both species are vital components of India's rich avian biodiversity.
Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder & CEO, Wildlife SOS, said, "The Sarus crane and greater flamingo are two of India's most beautiful yet vulnerable birds, and seeing them in distress is deeply distressing. We are grateful to the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department, the farming community in Laxmi Nagar and the army personnel at the cantonment for their swift and responsible action. Their timely action gave both birds a critical chance at recovery."
Baiju Raj M.V, Director- Conservation Projects, Wildlife SOS, said, "Rescues like these highlight how humans, whether farmers, army personnel or forest officials, can play a decisive role in protecting wildlife. Prompt and responsible action often becomes the difference between life and death for wild animals.
Shrestha Pachauri
senior press officer
Wildlife SOS.
