News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/21st July 2024
In a stunning display of bravery and expertise, a 12-foot King Cobra was rescued in Agumbe, Karnataka, capturing the attention of social media users worldwide. The dramatic operation, led by Ajay Giri, the field director at the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station (ARRS), was recently showcased in a viral Instagram video that has captivated audiences with its gripping content.
Earlier this week, Agumbe’s wildlife officials received an urgent call about a King Cobra seen slithering across a busy road. Disturbed by the commotion from onlookers, the massive snake sought refuge in a bush within the compound of a local residence. Alarmed by the situation, the homeowner, along with concerned neighbors, alerted the forest department, which promptly reached out to ARRS for assistance.
Ajay Giri detailed the unfolding situation in a social media post: “A King Cobra, approximately 12 feet long, was spotted crossing a main road. The disturbance caused by spectators led the snake to take shelter in a bush inside a house compound. The concerned homeowner and neighbors informed the forest department officials, who then contacted ARRS.”
Watch the video below:
Upon receiving the call, Giri and his team quickly devised a plan to handle the delicate situation. They communicated safety measures to the locals over the phone while hurrying to the scene. Once they arrived, the team assessed the situation and determined that the safest course of action was to carefully capture and transport the snake. Using a stick with a hook, they managed to guide the cobra into a specially designed rescue bag.
The rescue operation was captured on video, which shows Giri and his team meticulously setting up the rescue bag, securing it, and gently transferring the snake from its hiding spot into the bag. Once the cobra was safely contained, the bag was sealed and weighed, and the King Cobra was released back into its natural habitat under the supervision of local officials and the forest department.
The video of the rescue has garnered widespread attention on Instagram, with users expressing admiration and gratitude for the team’s handling of the situation. One viewer commented, “What a gorgeous cobra. Thank you for saving him,” while another praised the team’s expertise: “Kings have the most magnificent look when it comes to snakes… extraordinary handling expertise and rescue!!”
The attention to detail and careful handling of the King Cobra have not gone unnoticed, with many users acknowledging the team’s skill in managing such a formidable creature without causing distress. Some viewers even raised concerns about the potential dangers of King Cobras falling from trees onto vehicles, highlighting a new fear sparked by the video’s dramatic imagery.
The swift and professional response by Ajay Giri and his team exemplifies the critical role of wildlife conservationists in safeguarding both human and animal lives. Their efforts not only ensured the safe relocation of the King Cobra but also provided vital awareness to the local community about handling wildlife encounters.
This heroic rescue serves as a powerful reminder of the delicate balance between human activities and wildlife conservation, emphasizing the need for respect and safety in areas where such majestic creatures are found.
