12.5 feet python found in Agra village

Panic spread in a village here when a 12.5 feet long python was found on a road nearby on Tuesday, but the snake, found to be injured, was safely removed from the spot by a wildlife group.

Wildlife SOS's Rapid Response Unit reached the Rehankala village in Chalesar area here, after a village resident called up their round-the-clock helpline number.

"On coming across the crowd of bystanders gathered on the road, I requested them to maintain a safe distance in order to avoid alarming the python. I then contacted Wildlife SOS requesting immediate help," said Arvind Kumar, who called up the wildlife group.

A three member rescue team, after ensuring that the crowd of curious on-lookers were at a safe distance, carried out the rescue operation which took over half an hour.

A close medical examination revealed that the 30-kg snake had fractured its skull and it was taken to the Wildlife SOS centre.

The reptile, presumed to have wandered out of the forested area in the village's vicinity, will be released back in its natural habitat once deemed fit.

Baiju Raj M.V, Director Conservation Projects, Wildlife SOS, said: "Because of continuous expansion of human habitation and rapid deforestation, the movement of wildlife gets restricted, often forcing animals and reptiles to wander out of their natural habitats in search of food and water."

--IANS

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