Srinagar, May, 30: The picturesque Tangdhar Karnah region, known for being blanketed in snow during January and February with temperatures often dropping below zero, has witnessed an unusual surge in snake sightings this year. This increase is being attributed to human-induced climate change, which has resulted in a drastic transition from winter to summer, bypassing the usual spring season marked by rainfall.
March typically heralds the arrival of spring in Kashmir, bringing moderate rainfall, followed by the summer months of May and June. However, this year saw an abrupt shift from winter to summer. This change has had significant implications for the local wildlife, particularly snakes, whose behavioural patterns are closely tied to climatic conditions.
Aliya Mir, the Programme Head of Jammu and Kashmir, highlighted the impact of these climatic changes on snake activity. “In March this year, we didn’t receive any calls regarding the presence of snakes. However, in April, we rescued 11 snakes in the Jammu province, and in May, this number rose to 28,” Mir reported.
The Karnah subdivision, in particular, has seen an increase in sightings of species such as pit vipers and cobras. Accumulated videos and photographs from across the region have confirmed their presence.
Explaining the phenomenon, Aliya Mir noted, “Due to excessive heat and the lack of rainfall, there is a high probability that the hibernation period, known as brumation, was shorter this year, forcing snakes to come out of their burrows earlier.” Snakes, being ectothermic animals, cannot regulate their internal body temperature and typically remain underground during the colder months to stay warm. They only surface in summer to bask in natural sunlight and heat.
Efforts to educate the local population about the causes of increased snake sightings due to climate change and rapid urbanization have been pivotal. Mir’s educational initiatives have led to a noticeable shift in local attitudes towards snakes and other wildlife. “Now, people are more curious about the different types of snakes found in the area and the measures to take if they spot one,” she remarked.
In rare cases, the rescue team encounters snake species not native to Jammu and Kashmir. One such instance involved the rescue of a juvenile Common Sand Boa, which is not indigenous to the region. It was suspected to have arrived via a transport or goods carrier truck from another state. This incident serves as a caution for people to thoroughly check their vehicles, especially goods carriers, for wildlife before moving between states.
The rising snake sightings underscore the broader impacts of climate change on wildlife and the environment. It calls for increased vigilance and preparedness among the local population to handle such encounters safely.
As the climate continues to change, regions like Karnah may experience more such disruptions, highlighting the urgent need for adaptive measures and continued education to mitigate the impact on both humans and wildlife. (CNS)
