AGRA: An Indian Rock Python was rescued by the Wildlife SOS rapid response unit from a government official's residence located near the Taj Mahal, Agra. The snake was found to be in good health and was released back into its natural habitat shortly after.
The Wildlife SOS Rapid Response Unit responded to an emergency call on their 24-hr helpline number (9917109666) about a python that was found in a government official's house near Taj Nature Walk, located in close proximity to the historic Taj Mahal. Shocked to discover the constrictor in their residence premises, the panic stricken family contacted Wildlife SOS for help.
The organisation's team, comprising of two expert snake rescuers, rushed to the location and managed to successfully carry out the rescue operation.
The Indian Rock Python (Python molurus) is a large nonvenomous python species found in the Indian, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. This species is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES), which regulates the international trade of wildlife species.
Baijuraj M.V, Director Conservation Projects, Wildlife SOS said "We believe that the snake had wandered out of the Taj Nature Walk green belt, which is home to a variety of wildlife species. Indian Rock Pythons mainly feed on mammals, rodents, monitor lizards and birds. They are under the ever increasing threat of habitat loss, poaching and is a sought after species in the illegal pet trade."
KartickSatyanarayan, co-founder of Wildlife SOS, said, "Although non-venomous, a python's bite can be injurious so one has to be careful while carrying out such rescue operations. We our professionally trained rescuers who are experienced in handling snake rescues. Our team works hard to sensitize people to these largely misunderstood creatures and make it possible for them to co-exist in urban areas"
