Wildlife rehabilitation clinic at the heart of Tehran
In the past, animals in distress or seized from smugglers in Iran were often condemned to death. However, the Pardisan Park Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic now provides a sanctuary where these animals receive better care and are prepared for their return to the wild.
This clinic serves as a special facility for treating and rehabilitating sick animals from all over Iran. It houses creatures rescued from smugglers or brought in by individuals. As these animals are not yet ready for release, they are kept in various-sized cages to improve their condition. Different species are released back into nature during specific seasons and under controlled circumstances.
Birds of prey, foxes, bears, swans, eagles, and partridges are among the animals that have found refuge in this clinic, undergoing necessary treatment. After a period of time, these animals either find new homes in zoos or are released into the wild.
Mahyar Mar’ashi, a veterinarian specializing in wildlife diseases, explained that the Pardisan Quarantine Center takes in injured or sick animals found in the wild or brought in by people. The animals undergo quarantine and treatment. If they are deemed fit for release, they are returned to their original habitat. Those unable to be released are sent to authorized animal care centers or zoos.
Mar’ashi emphasized the importance of not separating young animals, such as lambs and chicks, from their mothers in nature. People often mistake the absence of a mother as abandonment and mistakenly take these animals. However, the mother may have temporarily left to find food and will return. Separating the young from their mothers can hinder their ability to survive and reintegrate into the wild.
Regarding keeping wild animals as pets, Mar’ashi strongly advised against it. Wild animals should remain in their natural habitats to preserve Iran’s wildlife, which is a valuable national asset. Only a few ornamental animals with specific conditions can be kept as pets. Unfortunately, during certain times, such as New Year’s Norouz, there is an illegal trade of species like the Lorestan salamander, non-native snakes, and turtles that harm Iran’s ecosystem.
It is crucial that we prioritize the well-being of our country’s wildlife and fulfill our responsibility to protect them. Wild animals should never be kept in homes, apartments, or gardens.