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Beyond the bite: Zoo’s snake awareness drive
In Short
Visitors learn about venomous species, myths and snakebite precautions
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Beyond the bite: Zoo’s snake awareness drive
Hyderabad: The third day of the 72nd Wildlife Week celebrations at the Nehru Zoological Park, Hyderabad, witnessed an enthusiastic response from visitors, with around 5,000 people participating in a wildlife awareness programme organised at the Amphitheatre of the Reptile House.
As part of the programme, a snake awareness show and cloud photography exhibition were conducted to educate visitors about snakes, their ecological importance, and the need for their conservation.
Ch Deepak Tharun, ZEO, gave a live demonstration and explained the role of snakes in maintaining biodiversity. He highlighted the differences between venomous and non-venomous snakes and addressed several myths and misconceptions associated with them.
The awareness session featured information on venomous species such as the King Cobra, Spectacled Cobra, vipers and kraits. Visitors were also informed that the majority of snakes found in nature are non-venomous and play an important role in controlling populations of rats, lizards, frogs, insects and other small animals. Species such as the rat snake, sand boa and green vine snake were discussed as examples of snakes that contribute to the ecological balance.
A detailed live demonstration also helped visitors understand how to distinguish between venomous and non-venomous snakes. Precautionary measures to be taken in the event of snakebite were also explained.
Speaking on the occasion, J Vasantha, curator, Nehru Zoological Park, said that every living creature has an important role in maintaining biodiversity. She stressed that snakes are an integral part of the ecosystem and said that myths, misconceptions and unfounded fears are among the major reasons for their persecution and killing.
She expressed satisfaction over the enthusiastic participation of visitors and thanked them for attending the awareness programme. Visitors, in turn, expressed happiness and satisfaction, stating that many of their doubts had been clarified during the session.
B Laxman, Assistant Curator-III; K Venkat Rao, Forest Section Officer; and HM Hanifulla, PRO, Nehru Zoological Park, were also present at the programme.
