Latest news with #WorldSnakeDay
Time of India
6 days ago
- Science
- Time of India
Rare cobra with three spectacle markings rescued
Chennai: When snake catchers from the Chennai wildlife division responded to a call from the CPT campus in Taramani to rescue a snake, they had no idea they were about to encounter a rare spectacle — literally. The cobra they rescued bore not one but three binocellate or spectacle markings on different parts of its body — an extremely rare occurrence in the species. These markings, typically found only on the hood of the Indian cobra (Naja naja), appeared along the body, making the specimen an unusual find. Chennai wildlife warden R Vidyadhar said the rescue coincided with World Snake Day (July 16). After a short quarantine period, the cobra was relocated to an enclosure in the serpentarium at the Guindy Children's Park, where it has since adapted well to its new environment. You Can Also Check: Chennai AQI | Weather in Chennai | Bank Holidays in Chennai | Public Holidays in Chennai Tirunelveli-based herpetologist and former St John's College zoology professor Albert Rajendran said such markings are rarely seen. While several snake species such as the Indian Rock Python, Russell's Viper, and various pit vipers have distinctive blotches on their bodies, the binocellate pattern is unique to cobras and usually confined to the hood. Herpetologists often use these markings to identify individuals, and it is common to observe variation in the hood patterns among hatchlings from the same brood. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Top Cardiologist Begs: Quit Eating Blueberries Before This Happens GundryMD Learn more Undo "But this is the first time I have seen such patterns elsewhere on the body," he said. This type of irregularity is an unusual morphological abnormality of the ectodermal skin. Similar to pigmentation conditions like albinism, leucism, or vitiligo, it could be due to a phenotypic genetic recessive mutation or a congenital disorder. Alternatively, such patterns might also manifest later in life due to hormonal changes associated with sexual maturity. However, these features are not typically passed down genetically across generations. The sighting has sparked interest among herpetologists and conservationists, making the cobra a significant example of nature's genetic unpredictability.
The Citizen
21-07-2025
- General
- The Citizen
Cockroach Mdluli saves 3m python from Mkhuhlu mob
In an act of bravery and dedication to wildlife, Cockroach Mdluli has once again intervened to save a 3m rock python from certain death at the hands of community members. The large snake was rescued on July 12 in Mkhuhlu near Hazyview, where it was found basking in the morning sun. Mdluli said residents, who had reportedly been spotting the python for some time, were determined to kill it. Their fear was amplified when it was discovered that the snake had been hiding in the ceiling of a local filling station. Just a day prior to its capture, the python had fallen from the ceiling but managed to escape unharmed into nearby bushes. ALSO READ: Barn owl nestlings rescued in MTPA sting in Mbombela When the python reappeared to enjoy the sun, a mob armed with sticks and stones quickly gathered, ready to strike. Fortunately, Mdluli was called and arrived just in time to prevent a tragedy. He safely captured the massive reptile, which was then released into the Kruger National Park. ALSO READ: Hssss…it's World Snake Day! Mdluli, well known for his snake-rescue efforts, used the incident to reiterate a vital message, especially during what he refers to as 'snake month'. He pleaded with the public to refrain from killing snakes and warned against attempting to catch them without proper training. 'Snakes also deserve to live – they are an important part of the ecosystem. It is completely normal for them to look for shelter and food in residential areas,' he said. 'They must not be killed.' His tireless commitment continues to highlight the importance of co-existence and conservation in communities often at odds with local wildlife. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
News18
17-07-2025
- General
- News18
Two Himachal forest personnel honoured for rescuing 105 snakes
Hamirpur (HP), July 17 (PTI) Two forest personnel who rescued over 100 snakes last year were honoured on the occasion of World Snake Day here on Wednesday. Suresh Kumar rescued 60 snakes last year while Vinod Kumar rescued 45. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Sameer Rastogi honoured the two, who were also awarded commendation letters and certificates by the Forest Department. Notably, snakes are found in forests and even in private and government houses during the summer and monsoon seasons and they bite human beings and animals, which at times proves fatal. During the programme, the field staff of the Forest Department were honoured for their commendable services, especially those working for the conservation of snakes. They were given digital certificates. Addressing the officers and employees of the department, Rastogi talked about the importance of snakes and their contribution to ecological balance. PTI COR BPL KSS KSS Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News18
17-07-2025
- General
- News18
Two Himachal forest dept personnel honoured for rescuing 105 snakes
Agency: Hamirpur (HP), Jul 17 (PTI) Two Forest Department personnel who rescued over 100 snakes last year were honoured on the occasion of World Snake Day here on Wednesday. Six people have died due to snake bites so far in the current monsoon season since June 20. According to the state emergency operation centre, two deaths each were reported in Bilaspur and Hamirpur districts and one each in Kangra and Una districts. Suresh Kumar rescued 60 snakes last year while Vinod Kumar rescued 45. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Sameer Rastogi honoured the two, who were also awarded commendation letters and certificates by the Forest Department. During the programme, the field staff of the Forest Department were honoured for their commendable services, especially those working for the conservation of snakes. They were given digital certificates. Addressing the officers and employees of the department, Rastogi talked about the importance of snakes and their contribution to ecological balance. PTI COR BPL KSS KSS Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Hindu
17-07-2025
- General
- The Hindu
Forest Department holds training programme for snake rescuers
As part of World Snake Day celebrations, 27 snake rescuers from Chennai and other districts such as Tiruchi, Madurai, Coimbatore, and Tirunelveli underwent specialised training at Guindy Children's Park on Thursday. The training was held a day after the unveiling of the Naagam app, which is aimed at promoting the safe and scientific rescue of snakes and raising public awareness about the reptiles. Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary to the Departments of Environment, Climate Change, and Forests, who inaugurated the World Snake Day event, unveiled the app and launched the training programme in the presence of Rakesh Kumar Dogra, Chief Wildlife Warden, H. Venuprasad, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Ritto Cyriac, Director of Arignar Anna Zoological Park, and Pramila Rajan, Director of the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust. The Forest Department has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust to manage the app and conduct training sessions for rescuers. According to Ms. Sahu, Tamil Nadu is home to 142 species of snakes, yet misconceptions and fear about snakes persist. The reptiles are, in a way, the silent architects of the forest ecosystem, she said, adding that there was a need to shift public perception through awareness and education. The training focused not only on snake-handling techniques but also on soft skills such as effective communication, especially when engaging with the public during rescue operations. Gnaneswar Ch, project lead, Madras Crocodile Bank Trust, said a key feature of the Naagam app was its ability to systematically record snake rescue operations, in addition to allowing the public to request rescues. 'At present, snake rescues are not formally regulated or monitored. This app provides the Forest Department with a much-needed tool to oversee these operations, including live tracking of rescues and verification of snake release locations,' he said. The app is expected to be made available to the public in the coming months.
