Snakes in B'luru: Residential areas infested as habitats shrink

Sowmya Raju | NT

Bengaluru: The number of snake sightings in Bengaluru has increased in recent weeks, with several instances of snakes entering residential areas. Several residents have complained on Twitter of sighting snakes inside their houses and their apartments.

Some sights of snakes in gardens and parks were also recorded. How to stay safe from snakes When addressing the necessary actions to take when encountering a snake, the snake catcher with 16 years of experience in the field emphasises the importance of refraining from physically harming the snake, despite the instinctual response that might arise.

Instead, he advises promptly contacting the forest department at 1926 or reaching out to Snake catcher Somu at 9731059709 or 8095709709, which is active 24/7.

While awaiting assistance, it is crucial to maintain visual contact with the snake and avoid displaying fear. Continuous, nonthreatening movements should be made, without employing any sticks or weapons to intimidate the snake.

In the unfortunate event of a snake bite, it is imperative to immediately transport the victim to the nearest hospital. Additionally, capturing a photograph of the snake, if possible, can aid in determining the appropriate treatment for the snakebite.

“After catching the snake, we intimate the forest department about the breed of snake and hand it over to them.”

Due to an increasing number of daily calls, ranging from 15 to 20, received by Somu in the past month regarding snake sightings in residential areas, he strongly advises maintaining alertness in locations where water accumulation is likely, such as kitchen sinks, gardens, toilets, and bathrooms. In Bengaluru, certain regions are more prone to snake encounters due to their proximity to lakes and trees.

Somu reports that he has been consistently receiving calls from areas including Rajarajeswari Nagar, JP Nagar, Nagarbhavi, Bansankari, Jayanagar, Vijay Nagar, and Yashwanthapur. Remarkably, in the past month alone, Somu has successfully captured and relocated over 150 snakes in various parts of the city.