In February 2023, a video of a 4 year old being mauled by stray dogs went viral. A month later, in separate incidents, two siblings succumbed to the injuries inflicted by stray dogs. Events such as these are common across India and have increased during the pandemic. India is home to over 60 million free-ranging dogs, of which around 35 million are stray or free-ranging. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), India is responsible for 36% of the worldwide fatalities attributed to rabies.
Wildlife under Threat of Free-Ranging Dogs
A 2017 study by Dr. Chandrima Home, highlighted a startling truth: free-ranging dogs have emerged as a significant threat to India’s wildlife. These dogs are not confined to a specific niche; instead, they span across a wide spectrum of ecosystems,. The study documented dog attacks on 80 different species, a staggering number that includes 31 species listed as Threatened on the IUCN Red List. Even more distressing, this list includes four Critically Endangered species, pushing them closer to the brink of extinction.
Ladakh’s state bird, the Black-necked Crane, is categorized as near threatened. Unfortunately, its population is under threat from dogs. Instances of dogs preying on the eggs and fledglings of the Black-necked Crane and other avian species in the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary in Ladakh emerged. The sanctuary, home to around 3,500 free-roaming dogs, has become a point of concern as they are also a threat to the Snow Leopard, Urial, Kiang, and the Himalayan Marmot which live in the sanctuary.
Similarly, the Haryana Forest Department reported several kills by free-ranging dogs that included blackbucks, chinkara, peafowl, and monkeys. A photo feature covering the cases of feral dog attacks published online by InFocus shows the extent to which dogs are attacking a range of wildlife species from red foxes to Himalayan brown bears to flamingoes to olive ridley sea turtles.
The Indirect Impacts of Free-Ranging Dogs
Beyond predation, free-ranging dogs also serve as vectors for disease transmission. Rabies, in particular, is a significant concern. Free-ranging dogs can contract rabies and transmit it to other wildlife and domestic animals, perpetuating a dangerous cycle of infection. Other diseases include Canine Distemper, Canine Parovirus and Canine Adenovirus. The potential for disease spillover into human populations further underscores the urgency of addressing the free-ranging dog threat.
The unchecked growth of free-ranging dog populations can create an imbalance in wildlife ecosystems. Native species play vital roles in maintaining these intricate systems, influencing everything from vegetation patterns to the health of their surroundings. The presence of free-ranging dogs disrupts these relationships, potentially leading to cascading effects throughout the food chain and altering the very fabric of these habitats.
A Call to Action: Conservation Measures
Conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts are rallying to protect India’s wildlife from the feral dog threat. The study underscores the need for comprehensive management strategies:
- Population Control: Initiatives focusing on sterilization and vaccination can help stabilize feral dog populations and curb their impact on native species.
- Habitat Restoration: Preserving and restoring natural habitats is crucial for providing safe havens where wildlife can thrive without constant fear of predation.
- Community Involvement: Educating local communities about the consequences of feral dog attacks can foster collaboration in safeguarding precious biodiversity.
Free-ranging dogs have become a significant concern in India, posing threats to both public safety and wildlife. One of the contributing factors to the proliferation of feral dog populations is the availability of food from improperly managed waste. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach that includes proper waste management strategies.
They are highly opportunistic scavengers, and they often rely on human-generated waste as a food source. Improper disposal of waste, including open dumps, overflowing garbage bins, and unattended landfills, creates an environment where free ranging dogs can easily find food. This, in turn, contributes to their population growth and poses risks to public health and safety. Effective waste management is a fundamental step in controlling feral dog populations in India.
Conclusion
India’s wildlife heritage is a treasure that deserves protection from all angles. The presence of free ranging dogs casts a dark shadow over this vibrant tapestry of life, but with concerted efforts, we can ensure a future where both humans and wildlife can coexist harmoniously. As we navigate these challenges, let us remember that every action, no matter how small, contributes to the preservation of a legacy that generations to come will be grateful for. The time to act is now, for the sake of India’s enchanting wildlife and the intrinsic value it holds for us all.
Written by: Soujanya Padddikal