Man tries to catch dangerous snake by hand, dies next day | WATCH

Mangaluru: A tragic incident occurred in Bajpe, Mangaluru, where a 55-year-old man lost his life after being bitten by a venomous Russell's Viper, which he had mistakenly believed to be harmless. 

The deceased, identified as Ramachandra Poojary, a resident of Bajpe, encountered the snake on September 12. Believing it to be non-venomous, Ramachandra attempted to catch the reptile with his hands, unaware of the danger it posed. The snake, a Russell's Viper—one of the most venomous snakes found in India—bit him during the attempt.

Video of the Viper biting Ramachandra surfaces

Initially, Ramachandra did not take the snakebite seriously and returned home without seeking immediate medical attention. However, his condition began to worsen by the evening, and he was rushed to a local hospital. Despite efforts to save him, Ramachandra tragically passed away the following day, on Friday, September 13.

This incident serves as a grim reminder of the importance of recognizing and respecting wildlife, particularly venomous species, and seeking immediate medical attention in the event of a snakebite.

A man lost his life in #Mangaluru's #Bajpe after he was bitten by a venomous Russell's Viper snake he mistakenly believed to be harmless.

The deceased has been identified as Ramachandra Poojary (55) of Bajpe. pic.twitter.com/uSML9l5odC

— Siraj Noorani (@sirajnoorani) September 15, 2024

What you need to know about the Russel's Viper?

Russell's viper, scientifically known as Daboia russelii, is a dangerously venomous snake from the Viperidae family, found primarily in South Asia. It was first documented in 1797 by George Shaw and Frederick Polydore Nodder, and it bears the name of Patrick Russell, a Scottish herpetologist renowned for his work on Indian snakes. The genus name "Daboia" originates from a Hindi term suggesting "the lurker," reflecting the snake's stealthy nature.

Commonly, this snake is referred to by several names in English, including Russell's viper, chain viper, Indian Russell's viper, common Russell's viper, seven pacer, chain snake, and scissors snake.