A pair of Spectacled Cobras was safely rescued and released from a residence in Gopalerkuthi, Tufanganj (Cooch Behar), West Bengal following a late-night call received by HEAL.

On 24 March 2026 after a team member received the urgent call, the Forest Department was informed and together with the officials we reached Gopalerkuthi close to midnight.

The snakes were located near the back of the house, in an area with corn patch and abundant rodent activity. Both cobras had taken shelter inside a rat hole. The team carefully excavated the area and safely removed the snakes one by one, ensuring minimal disturbance and no harm to the reptiles.

Ardhendu Banik, HEAL’s Assistant Secretary, informed local residents about why such environments attract snakes. Availability of prey, shelter, and low disturbance. They were also guided on basic do’s and don’ts in case of snake encounters or bites.

The rescued pair, identified as a male and female, was later released together into a suitable natural habitat.

The Spectacled Cobra is one of India’s most well-known venomous snakes and plays an important role in controlling rodent populations, making it an essential part of the ecosystem.

Timely intervention, and planned rescue ensured no harm came to the beautiful reptiles and the residents.

Learn More about HEAL initiative – Zero Death from Snakebites