Viral video of an Indian Rock Python at KBR National Park reignites concerns over wildlife conservation and proposed infrastructure projects
A video showing an Indian Rock Python crossing a walking trail at Hyderabad's KBR National Park has gone viral on social media. The sighting has prompted conservationists and citizens to highlight the ecological importance of the park and raise concerns over proposed flyovers around the protected green space.
Hyderabad: A video of an Indian Rock Python crossing a gravel walking trail inside KBR National Park in Hyderabad has gone viral on social media, drawing widespread attention to the city's urban wildlife and renewing discussions on conservation.
The footage shows the large snake moving slowly across the pathway before entering the surrounding vegetation, while visitors paused to observe and record the reptile from a safe distance. The sighting has generated discussions among wildlife enthusiasts and conservation groups regarding the ecological significance of KBR National Park.
Indian Rock Python Spotted at KBR National Park
Social media users identified the reptile as an Indian Rock Python, a non-venomous species protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Wildlife enthusiasts noted that the species naturally inhabits rocky forests and scrubland, making KBR National Park a suitable habitat.
Several users also pointed out that the python appeared to be moving slowly, suggesting it may have recently fed, a behaviour commonly observed in the species.
"The Indian Rock Python is a non-venomous, protected species and is a natural inhabitant of KBR National Park," wildlife enthusiasts said while responding to the viral video.
Viral Post Highlights Conservation Concerns
Following the video's circulation, several conservation groups and citizens used the sighting to highlight the ecological importance of KBR National Park.
The citizens' group SaveKBR (@CitizensForHyd) described the park as Hyderabad's "last green lung" and expressed concern over the proposed flyovers around the protected forest area under the H-CITI Project.
The group urged residents to support the conservation of the park, stating that future generations should also be able to experience its biodiversity.
"KBR National Park is Hyderabad's last green lung. Future generations deserve to experience this biodiversity, making conservation efforts essential," the group stated in a social media post.
Experts Say Indian Rock Python Is Non-Venomous
Reacting to the viral video, another social media user identified as Lawyaar™ (@DESIATTORNEY1) stated that the snake was an Indian Rock Python and explained that the species is non-venomous and generally does not pose a threat to humans.
The post noted that Indian Rock Pythons are commonly found in rocky and forested habitats and primarily prey on small mammals, birds and livestock.
Wildlife experts advise the public not to approach or disturb snakes spotted in their natural habitat and to maintain a safe distance while informing forest officials if necessary.
KBR National Park Remains an Urban Biodiversity Hub
KBR National Park is recognised as one of Hyderabad's most important urban forest ecosystems, supporting a wide variety of wildlife, birds and reptiles despite being surrounded by urban development.
The viral sighting has once again brought attention to the park's biodiversity and sparked public discussions on balancing infrastructure development with wildlife conservation.
