Rare Reptile Rescued in Nuapada; Safely Released into Forest by Forest Department

A rare species of reptile was rescued from Paikapada village under Komna block of Nuapada district on Friday. Acting promptly on information received from local residents, officials of the Forest Department safely rescued the animal and later released it into the nearby Tandul Hills forest. According to reports, the reptile was spotted roaming in front of the house of local resident Abinash Mallik around noon. Concerned villagers immediately informed the Forest Department. A rescue team led by Komna Ranger Bharat Bandhu Sabar, along with Wildlife Warden Mayadhar Saraf, Forester Bibekananda Mirdha, Forest Guard and wildlife rescuer Bimbadhar Hans, and Para Forest Guard Sagar Thela, reached the spot and successfully rescued the reptile. It was subsequently released into its natural habitat in the Tandul Hills forest. The incident has once again brought attention to a long-standing local superstition associated with this rare reptile. In some areas, people believe that spotting the animal is inauspicious and therefore kill it. In extreme cases, its carcass is wrapped in new clothes, given funeral rites, and mourned as though a family member has passed away. Forest officials have appealed to the public not to fall prey to such superstitions and instead help protect wildlife. Komna Ranger Bharat Bandhu Sabar stated that wild animals are an invaluable part of nature and play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. He urged people not to harm such animals and to immediately inform the Forest Department whenever they are spotted, so they can be safely rescued and returned to their natural habitat. The Forest Department also emphasized that public awareness and community participation are essential for conserving biodiversity and protecting rare wildlife species.