CHOKED BY PLASTIC & DISCARDED WIRE, AN EIGHT-FOOT PYTHON FIGHTS FOR SURVIVAL: WILDLIFE SOS RESCUES TWO REPTILES IN AGRA

(MENAFN- Wildlife SOS) CHOKED BY PLASTIC & DISCARDED WIRE, AN EIGHT-FOOT PYTHON FIGHTS FOR SURVIVAL: WILDLIFE SOS RESCUES TWO REPTILES IN AGRA

Wildlife SOS rescues a critically injured python entangled in discarded waste and a wolf snake trapped inside a washing machine in Agra

The Wildlife SOS Rapid Response Unit carried out two unusual reptile rescues from the Sikandra area in Agra, saving an eight-foot Indian rock python critically injured after becoming entangled in discarded telephone wire and plastic waste, and safely rescuing an Indian wolf snake trapped inside a washing machine. Together, the incidents underscore how unmanaged waste and growing urbanisation are increasingly putting wildlife at risk.

The python had become dangerously entangled in discarded telephone wire and a plastic bottle, both carelessly dumped near a forested area in Sikandra, Agra. The severely injured snake was found barely able to move, with each struggle, the wire cut deeper into the snake's body. The python was swiftly extricated by the Wildlife SOS team and shifted to Agra Bear Rescue Facility (ABRF), where veterinarians surgically removed the embedded wire and freed the python from the plastic bottle, while radiographic examination confirmed no skeletal injuries. The snake remains under intensive veterinary care and will be released once fully recovered.

In a separate incident, residents of a housing colony in Sikandra contacted the Wildlife SOS helpline number (+91 9917109666) after spotting an Indian wolf snake taking shelter inside their washing machine. The rescue team carefully dismantled the washing machine and safely rescued the snake. The reptile was found unharmed and was released into a suitable habitat.

Listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List, the Indian rock python (Python molurus) receives the highest level of legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

Rajesh Kumar, IFS, DFO Agra & Deputy Conservator of Forests, National Chambal Sanctuary Project, said, “When garbage accumulates, wildlife pays the price. This python's near-fatal entanglement is a direct result of irresponsible waste disposal in areas bordering critical habitats. Swift action by Wildlife SOS, assisting the Forest Department, saved the python's life — but prevention is the only lasting solution.”

Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder and CEO, Wildlife SOS, said, “Wild animals are increasingly paying the price for human negligence. Something as ordinary as a discarded plastic bottle or a piece of wire can become a deadly trap when waste is dumped near natural habitats. Protecting wildlife begins with simple actions such as responsible waste disposal and keeping our shared landscapes free of hazardous litter.”

Geeta Seshamani, Co-founder and Secretary, Wildlife SOS, added, “ Every rescue reminds us that wildlife is adapting to landscapes that are becoming increasingly dominated by people. Garbage dumped near forests does not just harm the environment, it kills wildlife.”

Baiju Raj M.V., Director – Conservation Projects, Wildlife SOS, said, “Snakes are vital to maintaining healthy ecosystems by naturally controlling rodent populations. When they are injured or trapped in human spaces, the safest course of action is to leave them undisturbed and call trained rescue teams so they can be handled without risk to people or the animal.”

Dr. S. Ilayaraja, Deputy Director – Veterinary Services, Wildlife SOS, said, "When the python arrived, the wire had cut through its skin and the reptile was in severe respiratory distress. Removing the entanglement and cleaning the wounds were the immediate priority. The radiographic examination was reassuring, there is no skeletal damage, but the wounds are deep and will require consistent daily care before it can be safely released."

Wildlife SOS is a non-profit conservation organisation established in 1995, working across India to rescue and rehabilitate wildlife in distress. In addition to its work combating illegal wildlife trade and mitigating human-wildlife conflict, the organisation actively collaborates with government agencies and local communities to protect habitats and promote sustainable livelihoods.

Wildlife SOS is also leading the national movement to end the exploitation of elephants in captivity through its Begging Elephant Campaign, which rescues abused elephants from urban streets, wedding processions and temples used for begging, providing them long-term medical care and sanctuary.

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