Highly venomous, rare white Russell’s viper rescued from Navi Mumbai society

The viper displayed an unusual white coloration due to a lack of melanin pigment. PIC/WWA

On Thursday, the Wildlife Welfare Association (WWA) helpline received a call from a resident of Sector 8, ‘A' Vrindavan Society Compound in Rabale, Navi Mumbai, reporting the presence of a snake in the area.

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The caller requested immediate rescue assistance, following which WWA volunteer Shrikant Kore rushed to the location. Upon inspection, the snake was identified as a highly venomous Russell's viper (Daboia russelii).

Interestingly, the viper displayed an unusual white coloration due to a lack of melanin pigment - indicating a possible case of partial albinism or leucism. Such light-coloured or white morphs are extremely rare in wild snakes.

The rescuer safely captured the snake and transported it to Dr Charier Pet Clinic for medical examination. The viper was found to be slightly dehydrated and lethargic. Based on the veterinarian's advice, it was decided to keep the snake under observation for two days.

The Russell's viper is currently housed at WWA's transit centre. After the final medical examination, it will be released back into its natural habitat under the supervision of the forest department.