World Snake Day: Debunking Common Myths Surrounding Snakes!

Every year July 16th is observed as World Snake Day to spread awareness about these highly misunderstood reptiles and the indispensable role they play in the biosphere.

There are hundreds of beliefs and myths surrounding reptiles, widespread in the country, which are misleading and have given way to superstition over time.

Representational image of a Cobra

Snakes have always been portrayed as a powerful symbol in Indian Mythology which has inspired fear and fascination in the minds of people for ages. There are several superstitious myths and misguided beliefs about these reptiles, which not only expose them to danger but also pose a threat to human lives.

There are over 300 species of snakes in the country, of which more than 60 are venomous, over 40 are mildly venomous, and about 180 are non-venomous. The Spectacled Cobra (Naja Naja), Common Krait (Bungarus Caeruleus), Russell¡¯s Viper (Daboia russelii) and Saw-Scaled Viper (Echis carinatus) are referred to as the ¡°Big 4¡¯ venomous snake species that are responsible for the majority of the mortality and injury cases in India.

Common Krait is one of the Big Four venomous snakes of India

It is important to understand that snakes use venom to capture prey or for self-defence. Cobras typically do not waste their venom, choosing to conserve it for feeding and digestion. 90% of the time the bite is dry which means venom is not injected.

Only 10% of bites are generally dangerous cases, where victims require urgent medical attention. If bitten by a snake, people need to identify the snake and remain calm.

If the snake is venomous, then immediately remove any constricting accessories like a watch, ring, bangle etc. Cover the area around the bite with the help of a cloth to prevent the venom from spreading quickly in the body and rush the victim to a hospital and consult a doctor for required medication instead of taking them to a traditional healer.

A single dose of anti-venom acts as a ¡®Life Saver¡¯ for all types of snake bites.

Wildlife SOS has rescued over 40 Monitor lizards since May

Agra and its nearby regions are home to nearly 15 snake species, out of these only Spectacled Cobra and Common Krait are venomous. Some of the common non-venomous snake species of the city include- Indian Rat Snake, Red Sand Boa, Common Sand Boa, Indian Rock Python, Black-Headed Royal Snake, Common Indian Wolf Snake, Common Cat Snake and Checkered Keelback.

Wildlife SOS has rescued rescued over 170 reptiles since May

The Indian Monitor Lizard (Varanus bengalensis) or Bengal Monitor Lizard ¨C is another non-venomous reptile species found in the city but due to lack of awareness and misconceptions, they are believed to be highly venomous. Monitor Lizards which can grow up to 5-feet-long and inhabit scrubs, parks, and jungles and mainly feed on small mammals, birds, rodents, and insects usually enter human settlements either to seek shelter or food.

This species is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. They play an important role in the ecosystem but they are often killed for their meat and body parts. Since May, the Wildlife SOS Rapid Response Unit has rescued nearly 40 Monitor Lizards from in and around Agra city.

About the author: Wildlife SOS (WSOS) is a non-profit charity established in 1998 with the primary objective of rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife in distress across India.