Vizag snake savers rescue 35k reptiles in 2 decades

A 42-year-old snake catcher Rokkam Kiran Kumar, hailing from an agricultural joint family, developed a keen interest in snakes during his childhood.

- DHARMENDRA REGANA

While playing in the fields, his parents and family members often warned him to be cautious of these reptiles. However, these warnings only fueled his curiosity and fascination. As time passed, Kiran's fascination evolved into a deep affection for snakes, prompting him to pursue snake catching as a profession after completing his degree. His journey into this field was largely self-taught, as he learned various techniques independently. On January 1, 2014, Kiran received an official licence for snake catching from Visakhapatnam Zoo Curator Ramalingeswarao, Chief Forest Officer Barath Kumar, and Chief Conservator of Forest (& Chief Wildlife Warden of Andhra Pradesh, AV Joseph.