Training for Snake Rescuers : Day -1.

Soham and Rowland demonstrating the use of scale counts for the identification of  snakes.

The first day of the workshop for snake rescuers organized by The Gerry Martin Project in association with Vidyanagar Nature Club buzzed with enthusiasm and curiosity as 28 participants set out on a journey to understand the nuances of  scientific and responsible snake rescue and handling. The first session of the day was a basic presentation by Soham Mukherjee on the biology, behaviour and physiology of snakes as well as their role in the ecosystem. The participants were also introduced to the factors that help in the identification of snakes and the differences between the deceivingly similar species. Soham went on to demonstrate how to handle a Rat Snake, a Red Sand Boa, a Common Wolf Snake, a Russell's Viper, a Spectacled Cobra and a Common Krait. The idea was to learn how to make each snake comfortable for the handler's safety as well as the snake's. Soham and his colleague Rowland Griffin demonstrated how to count scales in a Common Krait and later how to bag venomous and non-venomous snakes.

An interesting discussion on the various steps of snake rescue saw great inputs from the participants. The instructions that could be given to a caller on receiving a call were also discussed and standardized with reference to Vidyanagar and some surrounding villages. Emphasis was laid on the importance of keeping an eye on the snake and not disturbing it until the the rescuer arrives. Next in line was the necessity of having a rescue kit and all that could possibly go into it. There were several experienced participants who shared some experiences that helped throw more light on the importance of having intact bags, boxes, hooks and a reliable assistant during the rescue!

Transportation of the snake was discussed later, keeping in mind the season as well as the mode of transport. Soham demonstrated probing techniques in a rat snake and no wonder, the huge specimen was a guy! This was followed by each participant receiving a copy of Romulus Whitaker and Ashok Captain's 'Snakes of India', translated in Hindi, hopefully a good enough motivation for the participants to come back tomorrow, with more questions and energy!