Cobras and rattlesnakes released in Surkhandarya

In Surkhandarya region of Uzbekistan, snakes that are considered rare and endangered species — the Central Asian cobra and the Eastern boa — have once again been returned to their natural habitat. This important and noteworthy event was carried out in cooperation with the regional Department of Ecology, the National Guard's regional branch, and specialists from the Institute of Zoology of the Academy of Sciences.

It was noted that a total of 23 snakes — 6 Central Asian cobras and 17 Eastern boas — were carefully released into specially designated areas of the “Surkhan” State Reserve — Kampyrtepa, Sherjon, and Sholkon zones, reported Ekologiya.uz.

These snakes are considered in need of special protection due to their ecological significance, role in the biological system, and their natural behavior. The Central Asian cobra and the Eastern boa are included not only in the Red Book of Uzbekistan but also in Appendix II of CITES. This indicates that they are at high risk of extinction.

It has been recorded that the Central Asian cobra has completely disappeared in certain areas. In remaining territories, it is extremely rare, and according to monitoring data, its population is unstable. There is no precise statistical data on the Eastern boa, but specialists stress that this species is also highly endangered.

These snakes were previously identified by inspectors of the Ministry of Ecology and Climate Change during inspections as being illegally kept by citizens. They were confiscated in accordance with the law and temporarily transferred to the Tashkent Zoo for holding.

During this time, the health, physiological condition, and readiness of the snakes for return to nature were thoroughly examined by the scientists of the Institute of Zoology. Following relevant research and biological assessments, a scientific conclusion was made confirming their suitability for survival in the wild. After that, the decision was made to return them to their natural environment.

Environmental experts highly evaluated the importance of this initiative, emphasizing that such efforts are not only crucial for the country's biosecurity but also for maintaining balance in the entire ecosystem.

Additionally, this situation serves as another reminder to citizens: illegally keeping, selling, breeding, or using animals listed in the Red Book can lead to criminal liability. There are administrative and even criminal penalties for such offenses.

The snakes that were returned to nature have now begun their miraculous but vulnerable lives anew. They now have the chance to live freely in their natural habitat. This is a major success not only for the animals but for nature as a whole.

Officials at the “Surkhan” reserve plan to continuously monitor the adaptation and living conditions of these snakes, provide support when needed, and study their behavior.

Such measures are part of the broader efforts undertaken in our country to preserve biological diversity, raise ecological awareness, and ensure that natural resources are passed on to future generations intact.

It is time for every individual to reflect: every living being — including snakes — is an inseparable part of nature, and keeping them illegally is a betrayal of nature. Respecting living beings means protecting our future. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!