Rare Indian Smooth Snake hatchling rescued in Pune's Maval taluka

The rescued Indian Smooth Snake from Kanhe village in Pune’s Maval taluka. Pic/Wildlife Researcher Jigar Solanki

A rare hatchling of the Indian Smooth Snake (Wallophis brachyura) has been rescued from Kanhe village in Pune's Maval taluka, highlighting the biodiversity that survives despite rapid urbanisation.

Rare rescue

The non-venomous snake, measuring just 24 cm, was spotted after residents alerted wildlife rescuers. Pramod Owhal, vice-president of Wildlife Rescuer of Maval, and Social Worker Shashank Satkar safely rescued the reptile. Initially, rescuers suspected it was a cobra, Russell's viper, or rat snake, as the area is close to scrubland and a riverbank. Upon closer examination, they identified it as the elusive Indian Smooth Snake, a species rarely seen even by experienced snake rescuers.

Breeding sign

The hatchling was later released into a suitable natural habitat in the presence of Wildlife Rescuer of Maval, Founder, Nilesh Garade, and Wildlife Researcher Rounak Khare. Rescuers said the snake had hatched only recently, indicating the species is breeding in the area, a positive sign for the region's ecological health.

Expert Speak

Jigar Solanki, wildlife researcher
"The discovery of a hatchling suggests the species continues to breed in the Maval landscape. It also shows the region still supports healthy natural habitats despite increasing developmental pressures. The sighting underlines the importance of protecting Maval's forests, grasslands, and riverine habitats."

24 cm
Length of the rescued snake hatchling