Kanchanpur: The number of pythons is increasing in Kanchanpur thanks to the conservation of wetlands. The python population has been increasing due to the conservation of wetlands, ponds, lakes, rivers, and rivulets within the forests. Pythons have been seen in Belauri and Punarbas areas of the district for the last five years.
According to National News Agency Nepal, more than 56 pythons have been rescued from both Belauri and Punarbas areas in the last five years and released safely into their natural habitat, as stated by Dinesh Kumar Yadav, chief of the Kunda Sub-Division Forest Office. Yadav noted that nine pythons have been rescued and released safely since mid-July this year.
Yadav also reported that pythons, listed in the conservation list, have been found more frequently in Belauri municipality-1, 2, 3, 5, and 7, while sightings in Punarbas municipality-1, 4, 6, and 11 have been common. “There are more wetlands in Punarbas and Belauri areas. There are many lakes, rivers, streams, and sugarcane plantations in these areas, providing suitable habitat and prey for pythons,” Yadav explained.
He attributed the higher python population in Belauri and Punarbas areas to their proximity to the Laljhadi forest area to the north, the Dudhwa National Park to the south, and Shuklaphanta National Park to the west. In the past, locals used to kill the pythons on seeing them, but now there is increased awareness about wildlife protection, leading to more community-led rescue efforts.
Chief Yadav emphasized the importance of public awareness regarding python conservation, as they are protected wildlife. He highlighted that locals often inform the forest office if they spot pythons in farms or houses. The Forest Office revealed that the length of the rescued pythons ranges from three to five meters, and their weight ranges from 30 kgs to 60 kgs.
Bahadur Singh Mahara, chairman of the local Baijanath Community Forest, stated that the python is the largest in size among snake species. He mentioned that a wildlife rescue center is operational and actively rescuing injured wildlife.