Vedhapriya Ganesan’s love for animals began early. At just three years old, she discovered an injured shrew and, with a child’s compassion, had a tailor create a tiny swing to aid its recovery.

Her fascination with reptiles was ignited during a school trip to a snake park, where she was captivated by a talk from renowned herpetologist Dr S R Ganesh.

A fearless rescuer Vedhapriya’s first major rescue came at the tender age of 16. A snake had slithered into a home, and with the forest department unavailable, she took matters into her own hands. Undeterred by the fact that it was a venomous cobra, she safely removed the reptile.

Learning from the masters To hone her skills, Vedhapriya sought guidance from the Irula tribe, renowned for their traditional snake-catching techniques. “The Irulas usually don’t teach this skill to others. You need to win their trust. Since many younger Irulas are today pursuing education, they agreed to teach me,” she says.

While pursuing her education, Vedhapriya volunteered with organisations like Blue Cross and the Central Zoo Authority of India. She also played a crucial role as the chief coordinator for Chennai at the Western Ghat Wildlife Conservation Trust (WGWCT), focusing on wildlife management.

With over 6,000 successful rescues under her belt, Vedhapriya has become a beacon of hope for countless creatures. One memorable rescue involved a snake sharing a room with a baby. The snake, calmly consuming a lizard, posed no threat to the child, highlighting Vedhapriya’s ability to assess situations calmly and effectively.

A partner in conservation Vedhapriya works closely with the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, assisting with rescues and training fire department officials. She also conducts awareness programmes to educate the public about wildlife conflicts and responsible coexistence.

As one of the few women in her field, Vedhapriya faces unique challenges, including managing crowds during rescues. Her composure and unwavering focus are essential in ensuring the safety of both humans and animals.

A legacy of compassion N Parthiban, president of WGWCT, acknowledges Vedhapriya’s invaluable contributions to wildlife conservation. Her dedication to rescuing and rehabilitating animals, coupled with her passion for educating others, has solidified her reputation as a true hero.

A balancing act While her work with wildlife organisations is voluntary, Vedhapriya also supports her family as a pet stylist. Despite the demands of her various roles, her unwavering commitment to animal welfare and conservation remains her driving force.