33 snakes rescued from Sabarimala temple premises: Snake experts explain how to stay safe
Stick to the main trails and roads used by pilgrims. Snakes tend to hide in tall grass, rocks, or debris on the way.
Stick to the main trails and roads used by pilgrims. Snakes tend to hide in tall grass, rocks, or debris on the way.
Stick to the main trails and roads used by pilgrims. Snakes tend to hide in tall grass, rocks, or debris on the way.
It's only been a few days since the Sabarimala pilgrimage season started, but the authorities have already rescued 33 snakes, including 5 Common Krait (Anali) and 14 wild snakes from the temple premises, as per reports. Climbing to the temple, situated inside the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, requires caution as the area has many wild animals including snakes. That said, snake experts explain that there is nothing to worry, and there are extremely few incidents of snakebites reported from the region.
According to Kerala's renowned snake expert Vava Suresh, Sabarimala has comparatively fewer snakes now. "Around nine years ago, I had rescued King Cobras from near the 'pathinettaam padi' of Sabarimala, and another from the forest trail to the temple around seven years ago. Now, most snakes found in the temple premises or even the 'kaananapaatha' (forest trail) are non-venomous, like the Malabar Pit Viper (kaattanali) and Hump Nosed Pit Viper (kuzhimandhali). Moreover, the first aid medicine for snakebite is readily available at Sannidhanam and Pampa" he explains.
Pathanamthitta-based snake rescuer Dinsh R, who is also a forest officer, says that people get scared upon seeing the videos of snakes rescued at Sannidhanam circulating online, but the snakes are mostly harmless. "The snake often spotted here is the non-venomous variety, called Trinket (kaattupaambu), which mostly feeds on rats. However, as part of its attacking method, its hood can stand up in an 'S' shape, which scare people upon watching it," explains Dinsh. Regardless, they explains how to stay safe from snakes while climbing to the temple or at its premises.
How to stay safe from snakes in Sabarimala
1) Stick to the main trails and roads used by pilgrims to walk.
2) Use torches while walking when it's dark, in areas that does not have enough lighting.
3) If you spot a snake, do not try to disturb or catch it. Keep maximum distance as possible, and inform the nearest official.
What to do if a snake bites?
Before seeking medical help, Vava Suresh recommends the following steps in the event of a snakebite:
1) Do not let the bitten individual walk or lie down.
2) Most often, the bite would be on the leg. Tie a cloth about 10 inches above the bite site. Ensure it's snug enough to slow blood flow, but not so tight as to cut off circulation completely.
3) Gently carry the person to an ambulance, placing them in a sitting position. Immediately transport them to the nearest hospital for further treatment.