Flying snake rescued in Mayurbhanj

Mayurbhanj: A rare flying snake from the Chrysopelea ornata species was rescued from Dhanpur village coming under Similipal Biosphere Reserve in the district on Sunday.

Reportedly, a local spotted the snake while returning from the forest after collecting woods and immediately informed the Similipal Reserve rescue team. The team rushed to the spot, rescued the snake and later released it back into the wild.

Because of its capability of gliding on air from tree to tree, the snake has earned the name of ornate flying snake or golden flying snake.

Though the snake has been categorised as a rare species, the forest officials stated that it is mostly found in damp places, bushes and within long grasses.

Experts stated that the snake has a tendency to make poor captives such as lizards, frogs, chameleon and small birds.

The species is mostly found in Odisha, West Bengal, Bihar and North-western region of India, sources said.

The snake is green in color, with black cross-hatching and yellow coloured accents. Experts claimed that the colour of the snake is mostly determined by the geographical location.

However, this kind of species is considered mildly venomous and is not dangerous to man, experts added