Python Rescued at Taj Mahal After Unexpected Encounter
A five-foot Indian rock python was rescued from a toilet at the Taj Mahal, highlighting wildlifes presence even in historic sites.
Agra, November 12 (Daily Kiran) : In an unusual incident at the Taj Mahal, a five-foot-long Indian rock python was discovered in a toilet used by CISF personnel near the monument’s eastern gate. Upon receiving the alert, the Wildlife SOS Rapid Response Unit swiftly mobilized to rescue the reptile.
The python was first spotted by CISF guards, who promptly notified officials from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The ASI then contacted Wildlife SOS for immediate assistance.
During the rescue operation, the team faced the added challenge of managing a large crowd of tourists, as the site was particularly busy during the festive season. Upon arrival, the Wildlife SOS team ensured that visitors maintained a safe distance before carefully extracting the python.
Great care was taken to ensure the snake was unharmed during the rescue. After monitoring the python for several hours, it was safely released back into a suitable natural habitat.
Baiju Raj MV, Director of Conservation Projects and herpetologist at Wildlife SOS, emphasized that the Indian rock python is a non-venomous species that plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. Despite their size, these pythons are generally shy and prefer to avoid human contact. He urged the public not to panic if they encounter such snakes and to inform trained rescue teams rather than attempting to capture them.
Geeta Seshamani, co-founder and secretary of Wildlife SOS, noted that wildlife encounters can occur even in unexpected places, including historic sites like the Taj Mahal. She expressed gratitude towards the CISF personnel and ASI officials for their prompt action in ensuring the python received necessary help. “Compassion, awareness, and responsible behavior are key to coexisting with wildlife,” she said.
The Indian rock python (Python molurus) is one of the largest snake species found in the Indian subcontinent. It is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List and is protected under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 in India, receiving the highest legal safeguards.
