Python rescued by Odisha villagers

Odisha Channel Bureau Kendrapara, Dec 1: Residents of a village, infamous for wildlife poaching activity, have rescued a 10-foot-long python in distressed condition.The reptile had made its way into the house of a local in Krushanagar village lying on the close proximity of Bhitarkanika national park.After the animal was spotted by the house owner, he raised alarm leading to the congregation of people living on the neighbourhood.People decided not to kill the helpless python.They apprised the forest officials of the intruding snake.Later, it was saved following the joint endeavour of locals and wildlife personnel, said Pradip Das, a local resident. “We found the snake in distressed condition.After rescuing it, the animal was released in protected mangrove forest areas of Bhitarkanika,” said forest range officer Akshay Nayak.“It would have died under duress had the people not alerted the forest personnel.It is refreshing to note that people took the initiative to save the python.These areas are usually infamous of wildlife poaching activities,” he added.The forest department had held awareness campaign in sanctuary-side villages to do their needful to protect wildlife.Villagers were convinced upon not to harm snakes and other reptiles if they happen to make an appearance in their neighbourhood.“All creatures big and small are part of our ecosystem, and critical to the environment.It seems our endeavour is paying dividends as people have come forward in saving the python,” observed a forest official.