Shivamogga: Earlier this week, wildlife officials in Karnataka’s Agumbe undertook a remarkable rescue operation, capturing and releasing a colossal 12-foot-long King Cobra back into its natural habitat.

Ajay Giri, the field director at Agumbe Rainforest Research Station (ARRS), shared a captivating video of the rescue on Instagram, which was also highlighted by Indian Forest Service officer Susanta Nanda on X.

The incident unfolded when local villagers spotted the majestic cobra crossing a main road before seeking refuge in a bush within a residential compound. Promptly alerted by the homeowner, officials from the forest department and ARRS swiftly responded to the scene.

Giri and his team arrived and immediately began guiding locals on safety protocols regarding the snake. Using their expertise, the officials delicately extracted the snake from the bush using a rod, safely securing it in a rescue bag.

Reflecting on the rescue, Giri described the operation: “ARRS was informed and we provided guidance to locals over the phone. Upon arrival, we decided to secure the snake in a bag after assessing the situation. We conducted an on-site awareness program, distributing informational materials to educate the community. Subsequently, the snake was released into the wild in the presence of locals and forest department officials.”

The successful rescue underscores the coordinated efforts of wildlife officials and local communities in preserving endangered species like the King Cobra in Karnataka’s lush Agumbe forest