Doomdooma: A large Indian rock python that swallowed six ducks was rescued unharmed from Takouni village under the Doomdooma Forest Division in Assam’s Tinsukia district on Thursday.
Later, it was safely released into its natural habitat along the banks of the Dibru River after villagers alerted wildlife rescuers instead of harming the reptile.
“Although the python had consumed six ducks, the villagers chose compassion over retaliation and immediately informed us. We are grateful to the people of Takouni for their exemplary support. Such public awareness and cooperation are indispensable for the protection of wildlife and the conservation of our natural heritage,” wildlife conservationist Devajit Moran said.
The rescue team secured the snake using standard wildlife-handling protocols before transporting it to a suitable release site along the Dibru River.
The Indian rock python, a protected species under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, frequently strays into villages bordering forests and wetlands in search of easy prey such as ducks and poultry. Despite its imposing size, the species is non-venomous and plays a vital ecological role by naturally regulating populations of rodents and other small animals.
Appealing for continued public cooperation, Moran said, “We urge people to immediately inform trained rescuers or the Forest Department whenever wild animals enter human settlements. Every rescue made without conflict is a victory for conservation and demonstrates that humans and wildlife can coexist peacefully.”
The rescue is being viewed as a positive example of changing attitudes towards wildlife conservation in Assam, where increasing public awareness is helping prevent unnecessary harm to protected species while ensuring the safety of local communities.