From Venomous Cobras To Massive Pythons, Wildlife SOS Rescues Over 120 Reptiles In A Month In Agra, Neighbourhood

Agra, October 4 (TNA) An increase in urbanisation has resulted in the unfortunate decline of reptile habitats, leading to frequent encounters between humans and snakes. As a result, Wildlife SOS successfully rescued more than 120 reptiles – the highest recorded number of reptile rescues this year from Agra and its nearby areas – in September 2025.

The rescued reptiles included 25 Indian rat Snakes, 24 common wolf snakes, 21 spectacled cobras, 18 Indian rock pythons, 12 common kraits, and 12 Bengal monitor lizards, among several others.

In their continued effort to promote peaceful coexistence between humans and reptiles, Wildlife SOS actively conducts rescue operations in and around Agra through its wildlife emergency hotline.

With rising threats such as deforestation, rapid urbanisation, and climate change, snakes and other reptiles are being forced to venture out of their natural habitat and enter human-dominated spaces. As a result, encounters with species like snakes and monitor lizards inside homes, gardens, schools, and farmlands have become increasingly common.

Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS, said, “In just one month, over 120 reptiles were rescued from urban and rural areas of Agra. This is a glaringly obvious sign of how habitat loss and climate change are driving the displacement of wildlife. We must spread awareness about the ecological importance of these reptiles and how to peacefully coexist with them.”

Baiju Raj M.V., Director- Conservation Projects for Wildlife SOS and a herpetologist, said, “Snakes are an integral part of the surrounding natural environment of Agra. They are also inhabitants of this same landscape. Unfortunately, misconceptions and fear often put them at risk. Our rapid response unit works tirelessly to ensure both reptiles and people remain safe during such encounters.”

Geeta Seshamani, Co-founder and Secretary of Wildlife SOS, added, “When snakes and lizards appear in public spaces, our rescuers are well aware of their role and what they have to do. Every rescue call we receive is not just about saving a life, but also raising compassion among people towards reptiles.”