Media Release
Mangaluru, Feb 18: The Department of Zoology and Botany, St Agnes College (Autonomous), in association with the Karnataka Ecotourism Development Board, organised an informative and awareness-oriented session titled “Living with Snakes” on February 16 in A2, Veronica Block.
The session aimed to create awareness among students about snake ecology, conservation, and safe human–snake coexistence. The resource person for the programme was Rahul Aradhya B M, conservation educator and human–animal conflict mitigation manager, Bengaluru who is widely recognised for his work in biodiversity conservation and ecotourism initiatives across Karnataka.
The programme commenced with a formal welcome and introduction of the resource person by Dr Rachana L Alva, HoD, Department of Zoology. During the session, the resource person provided detailed insights into diversity of snakes found in Karnataka, identification of venomous and non-venomous species, common myths and misconceptions about snakes, first aid measures during snakebite incidents, the ecological importance of snakes in maintaining balance in ecosystems through engaging visuals, real-life case studies and interactive discussions. He emphasised the importance of awareness rather than fear. He highlighted how habitat destruction and urban expansion increase snake encounters and stressed the need for responsible environmental practices.
Students actively participated in the interactive session, asking questions regarding snake rescue procedures, venom toxicity, and conservation laws. The speaker encouraged students to promote conservation awareness within their communities and to avoid harming snakes unnecessarily.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the resource person and Shalet Pinto, chairperson, Karnataka Ecotourism Development Board for their collaboration and support. The session was highly informative and inspired students to adopt a scientific and compassionate approach toward wildlife conservation.
The session was also graced by Vidya Patali, dean of Science; Dr Soniya Lobo, head of the department of Botany; Dr Nivya V M, assistant professor, Department of Botany and Dr Rajesh T P, assistant professor, Department of Zoology, whose presence added significance to the programme.