An activist holding the rare Whitaker's boa in Belagavi.
BELAGAVI
A rare and non-venomous snake was discovered at a coconut trader’s shop in Shanivar Khunt, Belagavi, after it was found hidden under the last sack in a truck transporting coconuts from Goa.
The incident occurred at the shop of coconut merchant, Jaswant Goral, who immediately alerted snake rescuer, Anand Chitti, upon spotting the reptile. Chitti responded promptly and safely rescued the snake, ensuring no harm to people in the vicinity.
Upon inspection, the snake was identified as Whitaker's boa, a rare subspecies of the sand boa. The snake, approximately three years old, measured around 2 feet 8 inches in length. Experts confirmed that the species is non-venomous and generally found along the coastal belt stretching from Maharashtra to Kerala.
According to wildlife experts, Whitaker's boa typically inhabits loose soil, rubble, and stone or brick piles. Its primary diet includes rats, lizards, and geckos, and the species usually gives birth to six to seven young ones.
However, concern arose after it was observed that the snake’s tail had been cut and its mouth appeared sealed, indicating possible prior human handling. Anand Chitti stated that the injuries suggest the snake may have been captured earlier.
With the assistance of Forest Officer Prashant, the rescued snake was later safely released into a forested area in Goa border, its natural habitat.
Authorities have appealed to citizens not to panic on encountering rare or non-venomous snakes and to immediately contact the forest department or trained snake rescuers, instead of attempting to handle the animals themselves.
