Udupi: Python injured by lawnmower rescued, undergoes surgery

Team Udayavani, Jan 1, 2025, 4:16 PM IST

A 32-kg, 10-foot-long python that sustained severe injuries after getting caught in a grass-cutting machine was successfully rescued and treated by snake enthusiasts from Udupi’s Uchuu Trust. The incident occurred on November 16 in Adi Udupi, where the cobra was found with a 15-cm deep wound.

Rescue and Medical Treatment

Upon receiving information from the public, a team led by Akshay Shet from Uchuu Trust sprang into action. The injured snake, which also had internal injuries, was carefully rescued and transported to Samanvaya Clinic in Udupi for treatment, with the cooperation of the Forest Department.

Veterinarians Dr. Meghana and Dr. Yashaswini supervised the surgery performed by Dr. Aniruddha. The cobra was anaesthetized to ensure the procedure went smoothly. Within an hour of the surgery, the python regained consciousness. After a few days of post-operative care, the snake was fully rehabilitated and released back into its natural habitat.

Uchuu Trust: A Beacon for Snake Rescue

Founded two years ago by a group of ten like-minded individuals passionate about snakes, Uchuu Trust has already rescued over 1,000 snakes. The trust specializes in rescue and rehabilitation of snakes in distress. Later the snakes are released into their habitat after giving proper medical attention and rehabilitation.

Apart from rescuing snakes, Uchuu Trust actively raises awareness among the public about snake conservation. Citizens in Udupi district are encouraged to report any snake-related emergencies by calling the trust’s helpline at 9964012206.

Turning Passion into Service

“I’ve been passionate about animals and snakes since childhood,” said Akshay Shet, a software engineer and trustee of Uchuu Trust. “Driven by a desire to rescue snakes in distress, I teamed up with like-minded individuals to establish Uchuu Trust. Despite our full-time professions, we dedicate ourselves to snake rescue and conservation, treating it as a service to the nation.”