Snake sightings increase in Ahmedabad: 15 to 20 daily in Vatva, Narol, Bopal

As winter begins, both people and animals seek warmth — and reptiles are no exception. Unable to tolerate the cold, snakes often emerge from their burrows during the monsoon and winter months in search of warmer surroundings.

In Ahmedabad, the onset of winter has led to an unusual surge in snake sightings, with 15 to 20 incidents being reported daily across the city.

According to local sources, areas such as Vatva, Hathijan, Narol, Bopal, South Bopal, and Ambli have recorded the highest number of sightings. While snake appearances are rare in the Court Area, residents of Khadia were startled recently when a snake was spotted slithering through a pol street in broad daylight — the first such incident in nearly five decades.

Snake rescuer Rishi Thakkar explained that the reptiles are emerging in search of warmth due to the prevailing cold and damp conditions. Of the snakes rescued in Ahmedabad, about 60% are venomous and 40% non-venomous. The most frequently encountered species include cobras, rat snakes (Dhaman), and checkered keelbacks.

Interestingly, while previous sightings were typically on roads or in open areas, this year has seen reports of snakes emerging from toilets — a worrying new trend for city residents.