You got to hand it to the wild boars in Nanjing; they certainly know where the top spots are to hang out. But having them around humans poses certain risks. That’s where the Nanjing Wildlife Refuge and Rescue Centre comes in.
Early this month, two wild boars took to spending their time around Purple Cloud Lake amid Nanjing’s Purple Mountain that is a popular draw for tourists, as well as a local, outdoor-swimming spot for those in the know.
But the boars themselves soon became part of the attraction, with some visitors to the area occasionally feeding them. Local authorities initially reacted by setting up signage in the area; “Please stay away from wild animals”, and, “No feeding”; but quickly realised more efforts were needed.
On the morning of 7 February, staff from the Nanjing Wildlife Refuge and Rescue Centre therefore tracked down the boars, anesthetised them and brought the pair back to the Centre.
Revealing that both are sub-adult and female, a veterinarian from the Centre outlined the two-way risks that close contact between humans and wild animals present, as the Yangtze Evening News reports.
On the one hand, feeding by humans reduces the natural survival ability of wild animals. For wild boars accustomed to being fed, if put directly back into the wild, they shall likely return to the city again and continue to beg for food. On the other hand, wild animals may transmit unknown germs and viruses to humans.
The story is hardly new. This publication has made multiple reports as to wild boars encroaching on the urban environment in recent years. Chen Yuelong of the Rescue Centre explained that with Nanjing being surrounded by mountains and the expansion of human activities, interactions with wild boars are inevitable and increasingly likely.
Readers of the Nanjinger are advised, should they come across a wild boar, not to approach it and rather to quietly avoid it. Should the boar be a piglet, its mother is generally nearby; again, leave well alone. Should the piglet be on a road or other place where there may be danger, move it to a safe and secluded grassy area. Should a boar be injured or in great danger, contact the Wildlife Rescue Centre for emergency assistance. Never take a wild boar home for any reason.
The Nanjing Wildlife Refuge and Rescue Centre is located in Hongshan Forest Zoo over an area of 1,000 square metres and includes a clinic, laboratory, breeding areas and a soft-release area.
Animals received come mainly from the police and local citizens. All are given a case number, recording the species and breed, injury and intended-final destination. After successful rescue, they are released back to nature as much as possible. Typically, 40-50 percent of animals received may be later released. For exotic and rare species, the Zoo shall also try to encourage reproduction to expand their populations.
Readers who encounter injured wild animals can call 85620178 to consult with local professionals.
