This blog is written jointly with J Shanmukha

… But We Must: Rethinking Night Safaris in India

In our relentless pursuit of entertainment and novelty, have we paused to consider the sanctity of the natural world we intrude upon? As Uttar Pradesh embarks on establishing India's inaugural night safari, one must ponder: at what cost does this nocturnal spectacle come to the very beings it aims to showcase? Are we, in our quest for amusement, encroaching upon the inviolate nights of wildlife, depriving them of their essential repose?

Nocturnal creatures have evolved over millennia to thrive in the tranquility of the night. The introduction of artificial lighting and human activity during these critical hours poses significant threats to their natural behavior and well-being. Studies have shown that extended exposure to artificial light can disrupt circadian rhythms, leading to altered feeding patterns, impaired reproduction, and increased vulnerability to predators. For instance, research indicates that artificial lighting in night safaris can fragment habitats and disorient nocturnal animals, affecting their navigation and survival instincts. 

Moreover, the cacophony of human presence — vehicle noises, chatter, and the mere intrusion into their habitat — can elevate stress levels among wildlife. A study on zoo-housed gorillas during late-night events revealed increased restlessness and decreased rest periods, particularly among adult females. This behavioral disturbance underscores the potential for similar adverse effects on animals subjected to nocturnal tourism activities. 

The ethical implications extend beyond mere disturbance. By commodifying the nocturnal lives of animals for human entertainment, we risk normalizing the exploitation of wildlife, further blurring the boundaries between conservation efforts and commercial gain. Wildlife tourism, while economically beneficial, has been documented to cause significant disturbances, including disrupted feeding and nesting sites, and acclimation of animals to human presence, which can be detrimental to their survival instincts.

Final Thoughts: Toward a More Compassionate Coexistence

Instead of encroaching further into the fragile lives of wildlife, we must pivot toward practices that prioritize their well-being. Establishing buffer zones around natural habitats, limiting artificial lighting and noise in conservation areas, and enforcing strict visitor regulations during sensitive hours can mitigate human intrusion. 

Investing in wildlife corridors, supporting ethical conservation tourism, and educating the public about responsible animal interaction are crucial steps toward harmony. Most importantly, let us learn to observe with reverence, not interference. By respecting the rhythms of the wild rather than rewriting them, we don’t just protect the animals — we uphold the moral fabric of our shared existence. Because the true hallmark of a civilized society is not how it entertains itself, but how it treats those with no voice.

As stewards of this planet, it is incumbent upon us to reflect: Is our insatiable appetite for novel experiences justification enough to infringe upon the natural sanctuaries of other beings? Can we, in good conscience, prioritize transient amusement over the enduring well-being of wildlife? At what point do we draw the line between appreciation and exploitation of the natural world?