Home / Environment / Dhaka's Venomous Visitors: Urban Sprawl Fuels Snake Surge
Dhaka's Venomous Visitors: Urban Sprawl Fuels Snake Surge
20 Jan
Summary
- Hundreds of venomous snakes were rescued in and around Dhaka in 2025.
- Urbanization and habitat loss are driving snakes into densely populated areas.
- Loss of water bodies and green spaces exacerbates the snake problem.
Officials in Bangladesh are increasingly concerned by the proliferation of venomous snakes in and around the capital city, Dhaka. In 2025, hundreds of snakes, a significant portion of which were venomous, were captured in densely populated urban areas. These rescues highlight a worrying trend of wildlife encroaching on human settlements.
Herpetologists suggest that the primary cause for this influx is habitat loss driven by unchecked urbanization, deforestation, and industrialization. A study revealed that Dhaka has lost over 60% of its water bodies since 1980, impacting species like the Padma cobra. This environmental degradation forces snakes into residential areas in search of sustenance and shelter.
The increasing presence of snakes in urban environments raises the risk of dangerous encounters for city dwellers. With approximately 30% of Bangladesh's native snake species being venomous, proactive measures are crucial. Public awareness campaigns are underway to educate residents on safely coexisting with wildlife and understanding the environmental factors contributing to this issue.
