Large Python rescued near a creek in Digdha

Baripada, Sep 23 (UNI) Forest officials have rescued a ten foot long python near the bank of a small creek near Digdha, about 50 Kms from here.

Forest officials said the python was rescued as they apprehended that the reptile might harm the livestocks here.

'' The python had swallowed a big jackel and was unable to move,'' the villagers said.

Baripada Divisional Forest Officer Solaram Marandi told UNI that the gravely endangered reptile, listed in the Schedule I of the Graded Schedule of the Wild Life (Protection) Act of 1972, would be released into its natural habitat on September 26.

He further said the forest officials at upper Barha-Kamuda area in the Simlipal Tiger Reserve had rescued two land tortoises from a poacher from the Nato Reserved Forests, a few days back.

This rare and threatened species was also included in the Schedule I animal and was protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act in the Sal forests of STR.

UNI XC DP PP LL ND1536