Mumbai | March 2, 2026
A video showing a seven-foot Indian rat snake perched atop an air-conditioning unit at Mumbai airport has gone viral on social media, sparking conversations about wildlife presence in urban spaces and the growing frequency of human-animal encounters in Indian cities.
The footage, widely shared across X and Instagram, shows the non-venomous snake coiled calmly on the outdoor AC unit while onlookers maintain distance. Airport staff reportedly alerted wildlife rescue authorities, who safely removed the reptile without any injuries to people or the animal.
According to wildlife rescuers, the snake was identified as an Indian rat snake, a non-venomous species commonly found across India. Experts note that such snakes often enter urban areas in search of food, particularly rodents, which are abundant around large infrastructure zones.
The incident quickly gained traction online, with users expressing a mix of surprise, concern and curiosity. While some questioned airport safety protocols, others highlighted the importance of understanding local biodiversity and avoiding panic during such sightings.
Wildlife experts say rapid urban expansion, habitat disruption and changing weather patterns are contributing to increased sightings of snakes and other animals in metropolitan areas. Large cities like Mumbai, which are surrounded by mangroves, forests and wetlands, often experience seasonal wildlife movement.
Rescue teams reiterated that Indian rat snakes are not venomous and generally avoid human confrontation. They advised the public to refrain from attempting to handle wildlife and to immediately contact authorised rescue services in case of sightings.
The viral moment has once again brought attention to the need for coexistence strategies between urban development and natural ecosystems. Authorities are expected to review standard response procedures, while conservationists stress the importance of awareness rather than alarm.
As cities continue to expand, experts believe such encounters may become more common, making public education and timely wildlife intervention crucial for both human safety and animal conservation.
Last Updated on: Monday, March 2, 2026 8:13 pm by The Weekly News Team | Published by: The Weekly News Team on Monday, March 2, 2026 8:13 pm | News Categories: India
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