Madhya Pradesh Conducts First Scientific Snake Census

The Wildlife Institute of India has commenced a snake census project in Madhya Pradesh, focusing on the Satpura and Kanha Tiger Reserves.

The project aims to systematically list the species of snakes found in the reserves and determine their distribution.

According to L Krishnamurthy, additional principal chief conservator of forests, the research team is using camera traps and the pit hole method to monitor snakes.

Before commencing the work, the team trained around 110 forest officials during a two-day training workshop held in April.

The trained personnel will click photographs of snakes and upload them to a common WhatsApp group created by the WII team.

The photographs will be GPS-based, allowing the team to prepare a listing of snakes area-wise.

The study will help determine the number of species of snakes found in the reserve and their distribution.

This will be the first systematic listing of snakes in the reserve, providing valuable information for conservation efforts.

The project was initiated after Chief Minister Mohan Yadav pitched the idea of conducting a snake census in the state last year.

The forest department prepared a proposal and sent it to the Wildlife Institute of India, which sanctioned funds for the project.

The study will also help in containing snakebite cases by providing information on snake distribution and species.

The project will continue for one year, and the team will also collect data on snake deaths in road accidents and snake density.

The snake census is a significant step towards conservation and management of snake populations in the state.

The information gathered from the study will be crucial in developing strategies for snake conservation and management.

The project is expected to contribute significantly to the understanding of snake ecology and conservation in India.