Navi Mumbai: Large python found on bicycle in Vashi, Sahyadri Rescue Warriors conduct rescue

Indian rock python spotted resting on a bicycle in Vashi (Pic/Akshay Dange)

A large Indian rock python was found resting on a bicycle in a residential area of Vashi, Navi Mumbai, prompting a rescue operation by members of wildlife NGO Sahyadri Rescue Warriors.

Following a rescue call, team members Akshay Dange and Dhiraj Gaikwad rushed to the spot and safely rescued the reptile.

The sighting raised concerns among local residents, following which the rescuers also interacted with them and explained the ecological importance of pythons and their role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.

Python releases in suitable habitat

After the rescue, the python was released into a suitable natural habitat.

The incident once again highlights the increasing instances of human-wildlife encounters as rapid urbanisation and habitat loss bring residential areas closer to natural habitats.

Wildlife rescuers stressed the importance of creating awareness among citizens about the presence of wild animals in urban areas and the need to respond responsibly to such encounters. They also urged residents not to approach, harm, or attempt to capture wild animals themselves and instead to contact trained wildlife rescuers for assistance.

7-foot rat snake rescued after getting trapped in net in Thane

In a separate incident earlier in October, an adult Indian rat snake, measuring around 7 to 8 feet, was rescued after getting entangled in a net in Thane.

The Thane Range Forest Department received a call about the trapped snake and alerted a rescuer from the Wildlife Welfare Association (WWA). On reaching the spot, the rescuer carefully freed the reptile and found no visible injuries on its body.

Following a brief observation, the snake was released at the same location to avoid disturbing its natural home range.

Shivam Dubey, a WWA volunteer, said, "Discarded nets can pose a serious threat to wildlife, as snakes and other animals can get entangled and struggle to free themselves. People must dispose of such nets responsibly. If they spot a trapped snake, they should alert the Forest Department or trained wildlife rescuers instead of attempting to handle it themselves."

The incident highlights the dangers discarded nets pose to wildlife and the need for responsible waste disposal to prevent animals from getting trapped.