Rise in king cobra sightings alarms Chitwan buffer zone communities

Chitwan National Park's buffer zone is experiencing an alarming increase in venomous snake encounters, particularly king cobras and cobras, causing significant concern among residents, conservationists, and snake experts. In the last fiscal year, park officials reported rescuing five king cobras and 17 cobras from homes and settlements, highlighting an urgent need for enhanced rescue services and public education.

“

There have not been many confirmed human deaths from king cobra bites in Nepal, partly because they often do not release all their venom.

Snake expert Dev Prasad Pandey warns that king cobra bites can be fatal without immediate medical attention, though he notes these snakes sometimes inject less venom than others. He stressed that the presence of these highly visible and venomous snakes in villages poses a serious threat, as they are more likely to be encountered by people.

“

But the presence of king cobras and cobras in villages is a serious concern because these snakes are highly venomous and are easily noticed by people rather than hiding from them.

Manesh Limbu, a nature guide with 15 years of experience rescuing snakes, has personally handled an increasing number of king cobra calls. He dedicates his time voluntarily, investing his own money in rescue equipment, and earns his living as a guide. Limbu recounted rescuing a king cobra weighing over 10 kilograms and measuring 3.35 meters, emphasizing the fear residents experience when encountering such large reptiles in their homes.

“

I have rescued one king cobra so far this year. Last year I rescued six. People call whenever such snakes appear because they are frightened.