Just the sight of a snake is enough to send shivers down most spines. The truth is not every snake is out to harm you.
Many snakes play an important role in keeping the food chain in balance. On the holy occasion of Nag Panchami, let's learn about the cobra and some of the other common snakes found in India.
Native to only parts of Asia, it is the longest venomous snake on earth, stretching to 4-5 m. Remarkably, it’s the only snake that constructs a nest (using dry leaves)!
They represent the divine part-serpent Nagas and are worshipped/appeased on Nag Panchami in India & Nepal and fed milk, a practice discontinued in many places because of the cruelty it inflicts on the animal.
Also called dhaman, a widespread, absolutely harmless reptile belonging to the colubrid family and a very useful snake to have in your garden as it curbs rodent population.
It ranks among the tiniest snakes, confused with an earthworm. Found all over India, you’re likely to spot it tucked beneath damp leaves/fallen logs or buried in the soil. Completely harmless, shy, it keeps insects in check.
Easily one of India’s most dangerous saaps, it's part of the infamous Big Four. Generally calm, non-aggressive, nocturnal, its bite, mostly without pain has a venom affecting the nervous system, leading to fatal outcomes if medical help isn’t received promptly.
Daboia russelii, or Russell’s viper, is a deadly member of the viper family. Of the notorious Big Four, feared across India, responsible for a large number of serious snakebite cases, its strike causes intense pain and can be life-threatening.
Also called Echis, these snakes make a sizzling sound when their skin rubs together. Known for causing more snakebite fatalities globally than any other group.
Also dubbed hump-nosed viper, it is venomous. Native to India and Sri Lanka, the snake is mainly active after dark and just after sunrise, hiding during the day under fallen leaves or dense vegetation.