Deadliest snakes of Goa

The untimely death of Dr Ketan Bhatikar, who succumbed to a snakebite in the wilderness, puts the spotlight on these slithering reptiles – venomous ones, in particular.

While more than 30 varieties of snakes have been documented in the state, not all of them are dangerous. Having said that, quite a few venomous species are found all around Goa.

“We have the Indian Cobra, Saw-Scaled Viper, Russel's Viper and the Common Krait which we refer to as the ‘big four’ that are known to be responsible for maximum bites and deaths in the country. We also have other venomous snakes, such as the Malabar Pit Viper, Hump-nosed Pit Viper and, of course, the King Cobra,” noted ecologist Parag Rangnekar tells The Voice.

And, while these snakes don’t bite unless threatened, unfortunately, the big four are also commonly found around human habitation, he cautions.