Checkered Keelback water snake rescued from scooter in Thane's Hiranandani Estate

The snake was safely removed without causing any harm to the animal or the vehicle. Pic/Screengrab

A 1.5-foot-long Checkered Keelback water snake was rescued from inside a parked two-wheeler at Hiranandani Estate on Ghodbunder Road in Thane West on Wednesday, July 8.

According to members of the Wildlife Welfare Association (WWA), the rescue team received a distress call from a resident after the snake was spotted taking refuge inside the scooter. Responding promptly, rescuers conducted a careful search before locating the reptile near the vehicle's front wheel.

The snake was safely removed without causing any harm to the animal or the vehicle. Rescuers identified it as a Checkered Keelback, a non-venomous water snake commonly found near ponds, lakes and other freshwater habitats.

Released into nearby water body

Following the rescue, the snake was released into a nearby suitable water body, which is its natural habitat. The Forest Department was subsequently informed about the rescue as per the prescribed protocol.

Wildlife rescuer Shivam Dubey from NGO WWA said, "Snakes often seek shelter inside vehicles and buildings during the monsoon, either to escape flooding or in search of dry, secure hiding spots. We urge residents not to panic if they encounter a snake and to immediately contact authorised wildlife rescuers or the Forest Department instead of attempting to handle the reptile themselves."