Report cruelty to snakes

MUMBAI, AUGUST 12: Several snakes will be brought into Mumbai on the occasion of Naag PanchamiAugust 16. It is a common misconception that snakes are fond of milk, but the reverse is true. Milk can cause a snake severe dehydration and allergic reactions, but because of the cruel conditions in which they are kept, snakes generally eat whatever is offered to them and could even die of dysentery.

More often than not, snakes 8216;fangs are pulled out and a hot needle is pierced through the venom duct, causes venom accumulation and bursting of glands. Snake charmers also sew up and burn the snake8217;s mouth to prevent them from biting, so that they starve to death.

Snakes are instrumental in keeping pests like rats under control. However, because of the growing number of trapped snakes, there has been a marked increase in the rat population, resulting in the destruction of food grains.

Incidents of cruelty to snakes should be reported to Dinesh Vinherkar Shivaji Park, on 4376120; Vithal Zore Vile Parle on 6191461, and Bombay SPCA Parel on 4135285.