Craze for wildlife selfies frets Indian conservationists

Image for representational purpose only

Zee Media Bureau

New Delhi: The reports about the deaths due to increasing craze for wildlife selfies has worried many conservationists across the country.

Conservationists have raised concerns about the fact that enthusiasts, especially youngsters, are increasingly risking their lives and endangering wild animals for photographs.

"The trend is of people clicking selfies when they spot animals or are holding them and upload on social media. No one should die. As long as its 3D (someone taking a picture with wildlife in the background) it is okay but one shouldn't risk lives. I would suggest don't do it," said Pradeep Vyas, West Bengal's principal chief conservator of forests and chief wildlife warden.

Conceding he had received reports of certain deaths which allegedly occurred while clicking selfies, Vyas urged youngsters to refrain from putting themselves at risk, at a discussion on 'Role of Civil Society in Wildlife Conservation' organised by Society For Heritage and Ecological Researches (SHER) here on Tuesday.

On the same page, conservationist Bittu Sahgal said one should not go for selfies at locations that are out of bounds or could endanger wildlife.

"If you are sitting in a jeep and taking a selfie then its fine. There is no harm but risking your life or breaking a rule or endangering animals is not done," said Sahgal, founding-editor of Sanctuary Asia and member of Maharashtra Board for Wildlife.

(With IANS inputs)