Hyderabad snake rescue data from January to May 2024 reveals cobras and rat snakes comprised 76% of all rescues across 232 identified hotspots. A total of 332 snakes were rescued, with cobras accounting for 33% (110 rescues) and rat snakes 43% (143 rescues).
The highest number of rescues occurred in the Rajendranagar circle (68), followed by LB Nagar (58), and Serilingampally (48). These areas correlate with significant vegetation and water bodies, providing ideal habitats for snakes.
Other rescued species included pythons (18), Russell’s vipers (12), and sand boas (8). Less common rescues involved checkered keelback, common krait, and green vine snakes.
The Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) and the Telangana Forest Department’s Snake Rescue Squad jointly conducted the rescues, responding to calls from the public. Increased human-snake conflict is attributed to rapid urbanization and habitat loss, forcing snakes to venture into residential areas in search of food and shelter.
Experts emphasize public awareness regarding snake identification and responsible behavior when encountering snakes. They advise against attempting to handle snakes and instead recommend contacting rescue organizations. The data highlights the need for continued monitoring of snake populations and proactive measures to mitigate human-snake conflict in Hyderabad. The rescue squad received 812 calls during this period, but only 332 involved actual snake rescues, indicating many calls were for non-snake sightings or concerns. The data also shows a slight increase in rescues compared to the same period last year.
