Reported by Manoj Kumar Ojha
Doomdooma: The rescue of a rare Gray Thai Cat Snake from Tingrai in Assam’s Digboi on Tuesday evening has once again drawn attention to the ecological imbalance caused by rapid deforestation and habitat degradation across upper Assam.
Wildlife conservationist Devajit Moran said shrinking forest ecosystems were increasingly forcing several wildlife species, including reptiles, into human settlements in search of food and shelter.
Speaking on the incident, Moran said the Gray Thai Cat Snake is a nocturnal and moderately venomous species that typically inhabits dense forests with rich native tree cover.
He said the species primarily feeds on small birds and chicks and plays an important role in maintaining ecological balance within forest ecosystems.
According to Moran, indiscriminate felling of trees and destruction of natural habitats have severely affected several bird species that depend on specific trees for nesting and survival.
As bird populations inside forests decline, predators such as the Gray Thai Cat Snake are increasingly moving towards residential areas where sparrows, mynas and other small birds remain abundant around human habitation, he added.
Moran appealed to the public to support wildlife conservation and environmental protection efforts, stressing that coexistence with nature had become increasingly important amid growing human encroachment into forest areas.
He also urged residents not to harm rescued snakes and instead inform trained rescuers or forest officials for their safe handling and relocation.