Urban wildlife is often overlooked in wildlife studies, with most researchers based in cities but conducting studies in remote areas far from their homes. Urban dwellers generally view urban wildlife as pests, and modern urban systems discourage their presence. Despite these challenges, Pune, a city in India, hosts a surprisingly diverse array of wildlife, with 62 different mammal species recorded within a 40 km radius from the city center. Previous studies on Pune's mammal fauna date back to the 19th century, but much of the research was limited to bird fauna.

Habitat loss due to urbanization has been a significant factor affecting urban wildlife, impacting about one-third of the species. Pollution, though likely affecting many species, has not been thoroughly studied. While some mammals have thrived in urban environments, others have faced population declines or retreats. For example, sensitive species like blackbuck and tigers are retreating from the city at a rapid pace, while civets and hares are more tolerant and have retreated only slightly.

Various factors contribute to wildlife decline in urban areas, including hunting, poaching, and superstitions leading to the persecution of certain species. Trapping practices are generally small-scale and sustainable, mostly conducted by specialized tribes. Wildlife is also affected by becoming vermin, leading to extermination efforts. Urbanization poses numerous threats to wildlife, such as habitat degradation, disturbance, and hazards like overhead electric wires and poles.

Despite these challenges, Pune has the highest recorded species richness among Indian metropolises, with 65 mammal species found in the urban area. The city's location between the Western Ghats and the Deccan plains contributes to its diverse range of species. The study calls for deeper exploration of mammal diversity in Bangalore, another Indian city with a similar climate and biome, to expand knowledge on urban wildlife.

Overall, urban wildlife studies remain an underexplored area, and efforts to understand and conserve urban biodiversity are crucial.