An Indian grey wolf was recently seen in the Yamuna floodplains near Palla, where the river flows into Delhi, marking a rare wildlife sight on the outskirts of the city.
Wildlife lover Hemant Garg noticed the wolf
Last Thursday morning, a sighting was reported by Hemant Garg, a 41-year-old entrepreneur and wildlife lover who often monitors nighttime wildlife throughout Delhi-NCR.
Garg mentioned he spotted the creature at about 7:45 am, moving along the riverbank with a unique stride and possessing dark grey fur that was unlike that of a usual dog.
“It had a dull, dark grey coat and walked with a certain grace, unlike a stray dog. When I got closer and started taking photos, it quickly vanished into the tall grasses,” said Garg.
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Not seen in Delhi for years
Images captured by Garg were promptly forwarded to wildlife specialists, many of whom observed notable resemblances to the Indian grey wolf – a species that hasn’t been officially documented in Delhi for years.
Numerous specialists have verified that the creature is an Indian grey wolf, but it is regarded as unique since it was seen in the Delhi area, which is uncommon.
Nonetheless, they observed that strange occurrences take place in nature.
A wildlife researcher and wolf specialist mentioned that the animal resembled a wolf, but advised caution before making any assumptions.
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The dark hue and tail shape indicate a potential for hybridization with wild canines. He stated that without genetic testing, there is no certainty.
He mentioned that it is possible the wolf could have travelled from Uttar Pradesh or Rajasthan by the riverbanks.
Wolf not seen in Delhi since 1940s: Report
In the meantime, a 2014 report by forester G.N. Sinha states that there have been no verified wolf sightings in the capital since the 1940s.
The Indian grey wolf inhabits grasslands, scrublands, and dry deciduous forests, frequently sharing territory with agro-pastoral areas and sometimes hunting livestock.
Specialists indicate that color differences and fur quality may vary depending on age, environment, and rank within a group.
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Though the sighting is yet to be confirmed, it has sparked renewed discussions about urban biodiversity and the preservation of habitats.
“This is both thrilling and important. It shows the resilience of wildlife even in heavily urbanised areas like Delhi and reminds us to protect the remaining green corridors,” said Abhishek Gulshan, naturalist and founder of NINOX – Owl About Nature.
