Spotted owlet found killed on road in Aarey, wildlife photographer calls for safety measures

The dead spotted owlet was found on a road passing through the forest patch at Aarey. Pic/ Mahesh Yadav

A dead spotted owlet was found on a road passing through the forest patch at Aarey Milk Colony on Tuesday morning.

Mumbai-based naturalist and wildlife photographer Mahesh Yadav said, "The recent discovery of a dead spotted owlet, a victim of roadkill in Aarey Colony, highlights a serious issue -- the lack of adequate wildlife protection measures on its roads. Aarey, often called Mumbai's 'green lung', is a vital biodiversity hotspot and a declared protected forest."

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Yadav pointed out that despite its protected status, Aarey lacks basic safety infrastructure for wildlife, such as speed limits and speed breakers, leading to frequent roadkills.

"From mammals and birds to reptiles and amphibians, countless creatures fall prey to reckless driving, their lives cut short. There is an urgent need for the authorities to implement protective declarations into tangible actions. While the declaration of Aarey as a protected forest was a commendable step, its effectiveness is compromised without active enforcement and visible safeguards," Yadav said.

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