The sambar (Rusa unicolor) is the largest species of deer in Asia. They are (mostly) nocturnal and live in small groups, even solitary, and occur in a wide range of habitats from dry forests to lush evergreen rainforests. But as habitats fragment and populations peak in protected areas, animals disperse through human habitation, often traversing through urban towns, cities, highways and agricultural fields in search of food and shelter.
This adult male sambar was photographed on a road junction surrounded by people and vehicles in Alwar town in Rajasthan on the evening of 15th December 2021. While it’s unclear, this individual likely moved into town while negotiating its path from the neighbouring Sariska Tiger Reserve, which is 40 kilometres away. Urban noises such as traffic and vehicular honking while breathing polluted air must have been an awful experience for this animal otherwise suited for a life in the jungle.
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As habitats fragment and populations peak in protected areas, animals disperse through human habitation, often traversing through urban towns, cities, highways and agricultural fields in search of food and shelter.