Cobra rescued from rat trap in Bhubaneswar’s Sailashree Vihar

A cobra measuring nearly four-and-a-half feet in length was rescued after it was found trapped inside a rat cage at a residence in Sailashree Vihar in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday morning.

The incident took place at HIG-116, the house of local resident Som Patel, where the family had set up a cage trap to catch rats. According to reports, family members heard noises coming from the trap and initially assumed that a rodent had been caught. However, upon inspection, they were startled to find a cobra inside the cage.

Snake Helpline Assistance

Speaking about the incident, Som Patel said the trap had been set to catch a mouse, but instead, a snake was found inside. He immediately contacted Snake Helpline for assistance.

A member of Snake Helpline reached the spot and safely rescued the cobra from the cage. The reptile was later released into a suitable natural habitat outside the city.

Experts noted that with the onset of warmer weather and recent rainfall, snakes tend to emerge from their burrows in search of shelter and food. They often take refuge in cool, concealed spaces such as outdoor air-conditioning units, storage areas, and other hidden corners in residential premises.

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Residents have been advised to remain cautious and avoid handling snakes on their own. Authorities and wildlife experts recommend immediately contacting trained rescuers in case of such sightings to ensure safety for both people and wildlife.