Assam's Sontipur sees rise in Venomous Lesser Black Krait, advisory issued

A lesser black krait emerged in the house of a bureaucrat near Tezpur University. The snake was identified by Dr Rajat Basu, an alumnus of Tezpur University and current employee of the Pollution Control Board, working alongside a snake-friendly team. 

 

Dr Basu informed snake expert Saurav Barkotoki, who subsequently rescued the snake that night. The next morning, Barkatki handed the snake over to the forest department, advising them to release it in the Bhomoraguri forest area. 

 

Talking about this snake, known in English as a Silent Killer i.e. silent ghatak, Barkotoki says, "Lesser Black Krait i.e. the scientific name of the art conch shell Bungarus lividus cantor, ... it falls into highly venomous snake species. In Assam, the name of this snake varies from place to place, but we Sonitpur people say that black gowala or black shankhchur”.

 

“Many people mistakenly believe the lesser black krait is harmless, likening it to a non-venomous snake. However, these snakes are attracted to human warmth and often enter homes at night. On hot nights, they may be found lying on the ground or floor, seeking heat. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid sleeping directly on the ground or floor to prevent potential encounters with these snakes”. 

 

“If you must sleep on the ground during hot weather, use an athwa for protection. There have been numerous instances of lesser black kraits seeking warmth from humans and lying close to them. If a person’s hands, feet, or cheeks come into contact with the snake during sleep, the snake may bite in self-defense, often resulting in the person's death. By morning, the individual may be found lifeless, having succumbed to the venom during the night”.

 

“It might initially appear that a person who dies from a lesser black krait bite suffered a stroke or heart attack. In reality, many deaths attributed to such causes could be the result of these snakes. The lesser black krait is particularly elusive; its bites leave no visible marks, and there is no noticeable pain or swelling. Its fangs are very small, which means bites may not leave clear tooth marks”.

 

“Despite the lethal nature of the lesser black krait, treatment is available. Immediate medical attention is crucial; the affected person should be admitted to the hospital as soon as possible. The diet of the lesser black krait includes other snakes and small animals”.

 

“This snake inhabits the ground and is commonly found in grasslands, woodlands, and near human habitations. Its head has a white or yellowish-white underside, and it has small black eyes. The snake’s body is long and features a jagged, rough texture". 

 

It is important to note that previous records indicate a higher population of lesser black kraits in the area around Tezpur University in Sonitpur district. To ensure safety, residents in this region should sleep with mosquito nets at night to reduce the risk of encountering these dangerous snakes.