Assam: Russell's Viper rescued near army camp in Tezpur

A Russell's Viper, a highly venomous species, was rescued from the Rongamati area of Tezpur, in a recent operation led by renowned serpent expert Sourabh Borkotoky. The snake was found near an army camp, and Borkotoky successfully captured it, recommending that it be handed over to the Forest Department for safe transfer to a zoo in Guwahati.

This rescue marks the tenth Russell's Viper that Borkotoky has rescued in Sonitpur district. The incident also marks the first rescue of this venomous species in Assam in 2025. Borkotoky previously rescued a Russell's Viper in Sonitpur district at the close of 2023. In 2024, his efforts led to the rescue of several Russell’s Vipers, two of which were transferred to the Guwahati Zoo, while one was sent to Kaziranga for medical attention.

As part of his ongoing efforts, Borkotoky and his team, known as the "Serpent-Friendly Sourabh Borkotoky Team," have been instrumental in rescuing both live and dead Russell’s Vipers found in Sonitpur district. Some of the deceased snakes were tragically found under the wheels of tractors and other vehicles.

Borkotoky has also raised awareness about the presence of Russell's Vipers in local farming areas of Bihaguri. According to him, while snakes are typically less visible during winter months, Russell’s Vipers remain active even in colder weather, searching for new places to inhabit. Since 2023, Borkotoky has been actively conducting awareness campaigns in the region to educate the public about these dangerous creatures.


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