Wildlife SOS Rescues Two Snake Pairs From Residential Areas in Kashmir | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Wildlife SOS rescued two mating pairs of snakes, including Indian rat snakes and Levantine vipers, from the Awantipora and Wathora areas of Jammu and Kashmir during the ongoing breeding season in the Valley.

According to the organisation, the reptiles were spotted by residents in kitchen gardens near paddy fields and close to Water and Irrigation Department premises, following which rescue teams were alerted.

Wildlife SOS said the rescue team safely handled and relocated both snake pairs. Special precautions were taken during the rescue of the Levantine vipers, one of the venomous snake species found in the Kashmir Valley.

The organisation stated that all four snakes were later released into suitable wild habitats away from human settlements after assessment and safe extrication.

Officials said snake sightings typically increase between April and May, which marks the breeding season for several snake species in Kashmir. During this period, snakes often move towards quieter and secluded areas in search of shelter and nesting grounds.

Aaliya Mir said snakes commonly move closer to human habitation during the mating season while searching for secure spaces and urged residents not to attempt handling them without trained assistance.

Kartick Satyanarayan said rescue operations involving venomous species required caution and timely intervention to ensure the safety of both residents and reptiles.