The Forest Department’s quick intervention averted a potential threat as they successfully removed a three-meter-long female King Cobra from a residential area in Peddem-Loliem.
The alert was first raised by a vigilant motorcyclist who witnessed the cobra crossing the road, seeking refuge in a roadside hole while inciting a flurry of barks from nearby dogs. Despite initial assumptions of it being a harmless snake, quick action was taken as some individuals suspected it to be a Cobra, prompting a call to the forest officials.
Forest rescuers, Harischandra Chodankar and Gautham Bhagat from Hathipal and Khotigao responded quickly. Upon arrival, they managed to coax the Cobra out of its hiding spot. With skilful manoeuvring, one rescuer safely secured the snake’s tail, facilitating its capture by guiding it into a specially prepared cotton bag.
Residents recounted previous encounters with the Cobra, noting its threat to livestock and raising concerns for the safety of children in the area.
As the rescuers departed with the captured Cobra, another sighting of a similar venomous snake in the vicinity was reported. Speculating it to be the male partner of the captured Cobra, the rescuers urged locals to promptly alert them to any future sightings for action.
