Nagpur: Renowned snake rescuer and animal activist Santosh Soni sprang into action after receiving an urgent call around 12:00 pm on Friday from the NEERI area near Deekshabhoomi, reporting that a wild animal was trapped inside an electric room on the premises.

Without wasting a moment, Soni rushed to the spot. After inspecting the location, he discovered that an Indian Civet Cat had become trapped inside the electric control room. Using his expertise, calm approach and precise rescue skills, Soni successfully freed the civet without causing any harm—neither to the animal nor to any person nearby.

After the rescue, Soni educated the on-site security staff and local residents about the civet, dispelling fears and misconceptions. The rescued animal was later safely handed over to the Transit Treatment Centre in Seminary Hills for further care.

Speaking about the species, Soni explained that the Indian Civet Cat is a medium-sized nocturnal mammal, often mistaken for a domestic cat due to its appearance. However, it belongs to the Viverridae family, not the Felidae family like common house cats. Indian civets are found across India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and parts of Southeast Asia, and they frequently inhabit forests, scrublands, agricultural areas, and occasionally human settlements.

Soni emphasized that civet cats are shy, harmless, and avoid human contact, but due to lack of awareness, people often mistake them for dangerous wild animals.

Adding an emotional note to the incident, Soni shared that today was his birthday. “I have dedicated many years of my life to helping voiceless and innocent animals. But rescuing an animal on my own birthday feels like one of the most fulfilling and soul-soothing moments of my life,” he said with gratitude.