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Srimoyee Chowdhury 17 August 2025
Each year, the rains bring not just fresh green cover but also snake sightings. Before fear takes over, here’s what’s really happening under the surface.
Their underground homes are flooded Most snakes live in burrows, wells, or termite mounds. When monsoon water fills these spaces, they’re forced out, often into gardens, compounds, and fields.
Their prey is more active, too Frogs, rats, and insects thrive during rains. Snakes, being carnivores, naturally follow. They're not targeting homes; they're just tracking their dinner, and your garden may be in the middle.
Monsoon is the mating season for many For several Indian species, rains trigger mating. Snakes may travel longer distances or engage in courtship rituals, behaviour often misunderstood as aggression.
The humid air helps them move better Snakes are ectothermic. In the cool, damp weather, their metabolism improves, movement becomes easier, and skin shedding happens more smoothly..
We step out more, so we notice more Clearing drains, gardening, evening walks, all our outdoor routines pick up during monsoon. More human movement means more chances of spotting what’s already nearby.
If you spot a snake, stay calm Most snakes in India are non-venomous. Even venomous ones won’t attack unless provoked. The safest response? Step back, don’t engage, and keep others away.
Call a trained rescuer, not the neighbours Trying to handle or kill a snake is dangerous and illegal. Call trained wildlife rescue teams. Here are three trusted options: • Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre -WRRC (Bangalore) – +91 94496 42222 • RESQ Charitable Trust (Pune) – +91 77438 89952 • Friends of Snakes Society (Hyderabad) – +91 83742 44172
Snakes are crucial to our ecosystem By feeding on rodents, snakes help protect crops and prevent disease. They are vital to maintaining ecological balance, especially in farmlands and urban areas.
They’re not invading, they’re surviving Monsoon changes the landscape for all creatures. Snake sightings aren't threats; they're part of nature adjusting to the rain. Let’s coexist with awareness, not fear.