In an awe-inspiring wildlife rescue operation, a massive 12-foot-long King Cobra was safely rescued and released into the forest by wildlife officials in Karnataka’s Agumbe earlier this week. Ajay Giri, the field director at the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station (ARRS), documented the dramatic rescue on Instagram. The video, later shared on X by Indian Forest Service officer Susanta Nanda, has garnered widespread attention.
The ordeal began when villagers spotted the colossal cobra crossing a main road and seeking refuge in a bush within a house compound. Alarmed by the snake’s presence, the homeowner alerted the forest department and ARRS officials.
Ajay Giri and his team promptly responded to the call. While en route, Giri provided crucial guidance to the locals over the phone, advising them on safety measures to avoid any mishaps.
Upon arrival, the rescue team swiftly set to work. Using a rod, they carefully extricated the snake from the bush and placed it into a rescue bag. The King Cobra was then released back into the wild, ensuring the safety of both the snake and the local community.
Detailing the incident in his Instagram post, Giri said, "ARRS was informed about the situation. Over the call, we instructed locals about dos and don’ts and rushed to the location. After the inspection, we decided to bag the snake. The snake was gently bagged. We conducted an onsite awareness program for locals, distributed informative materials. Later, the snake was released into the wild in the presence of locals and in-charge forest department officials."
The gripping rescue video has left viewers with goosebumps. Ajay Giri, who has around 13,000 followers on Instagram, frequently shares videos of snake rescues, showcasing the importance of wildlife conservation.
Commending the team’s efforts, Susanta Nanda praised Ajay Giri and his team for their successful and humane rescue mission, highlighting the importance of such endeavors in maintaining the delicate balance of our ecosystems.
