Coimbatore Urban Sprawl Fuels Human-Snake Encounters

A study published on January 21, 2026, reveals a significant increase in negative human-snake interactions in northern Coimbatore, directly linked to rapid urbanisation encroaching on critical snake habitats. The research, conducted over 35 months from 2022 to 2024, analysed snake rescue data to understand snake ecology and devise mitigation strategies.

A dedicated 10-member rescue team from the Wildlife and Nature Conservation Trust (WNCT) successfully rescued 2,318 snakes, comprising 980 venomous and 1,338 non-venomous individuals from 17 different species. The peak rescue period occurred between March and June annually.

The study identified specific 'hotspot' areas in North Coimbatore where snakes are frequently encountered. These locations, often situated near rivers like Noyyal and Koushika and the Sanganoor stream, provide snakes with shelter, prey, and proximity to water. However, pollution from untreated waste entering tanks and rivers threatens these habitats.

Researchers noted that both venomous and non-venomous snakes share these preferred habitats, highlighting their ecological significance. The presence of the 'big four' snakes—Spectacled Cobra, Common Krait, Russell's Viper, and Saw-scaled Viper—in the study area is a concern, as urban expansion pushes snakes into human-dominated zones, increasing bite risks.

Experts emphasize the crucial need to protect water bodies and their surrounding ecosystems to conserve snake populations and maintain ecological balance. They also advocate for the Forest Department to permit only well-trained rescuers to handle snake rescues, thereby minimizing harm to both humans and snakes.