Wildlife SOS Rescues Two Reptiles from Separate Incidents in Agra

Wildlife SOS rescued two reptiles in separate incidents in Agra's Sikandra area, highlighting the growing risks that unmanaged waste and urban expansion pose to wildlife.

The organisation's Rapid Response Unit rescued an injured Indian rock python trapped in discarded telephone wire and a plastic bottle. In another operation, the team safely removed an Indian wolf snake that had taken shelter inside a washing machine at a residential colony.

Python Found Severely Injured Near Forest Area

The eight-foot Indian rock python was discovered near a forested stretch in Sikandra after becoming entangled in telephone wire and plastic waste that had been discarded in the area.

The reptile was barely able to move. As it struggled, the wire tightened further and caused deep injuries.

Wildlife SOS responders carefully freed the python and transported it to the Agra Bear Rescue Facility (ABRF) for treatment.

Veterinarians Perform Emergency Treatment

Veterinarians removed the embedded wire and carefully released the python from the plastic bottle. They also conducted a radiographic examination to assess the extent of the injuries.

The examination showed no skeletal damage. However, the python sustained deep wounds and remains under veterinary observation. It will be released into its natural habitat after it fully recovers.

Wolf Snake Safely Removed from Washing Machine

In a separate rescue, residents of a housing colony in Sikandra contacted the Wildlife SOS helpline after finding an Indian wolf snake inside their washing machine.

The rescue team dismantled part of the appliance to safely reach the snake. The reptile was unharmed and was later released into a suitable natural habitat.

Protected Species Faces Growing Threats

The Indian rock python (Python molurus) is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. In India, the species receives the highest legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

The rescue highlights how discarded waste around natural habitats can create life-threatening situations for protected wildlife.

Rajesh Kumar, IFS, DFO Agra and Deputy Conservator of Forests, National Chambal Sanctuary Project, said that irresponsible waste disposal near forests continues to threaten wildlife. He added that timely action by Wildlife SOS, working alongside the Forest Department, helped save the python, while long-term prevention depends on responsible waste management.

Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS, said that everyday waste, including plastic bottles and discarded wire, can become dangerous for wild animals when left near natural habitats. He noted that responsible waste disposal is an important step towards reducing such incidents.

Geeta Seshamani, Co-founder and Secretary of Wildlife SOS, said that increasing human activity around forests is forcing wildlife to adapt to changing landscapes. She added that waste dumped near these areas not only harms the environment but also threatens animal survival.

Baiju Raj M.V., Director of Conservation Projects at Wildlife SOS, said snakes play an important ecological role by controlling rodent populations. He advised people not to disturb reptiles found in human spaces and instead contact trained rescue teams.

Dr. S. Ilayaraja, Deputy Director of Veterinary Services at Wildlife SOS, said the python arrived with deep wounds caused by the wire and was experiencing severe respiratory distress. He added that although scans confirmed there was no skeletal injury, the reptile will require continued treatment and monitoring before it can be released.