Video | Large Rock Python Spotted Crossing Mumbai-Pune Expressway
Image Courtesy | @rahulpathak1976
In an unusual sight, a large rock python was spotted crossing the Mumbai-Pune Expressway last evening around 7 PM. The video, captured by Mandar Kolekar, was shared on X by user Rahul Pathak (@rahulpathak1976), showing vehicles halted to allow the massive snake to cross safely. A long queue of vehicles formed as commuters patiently waited, with some passersby admiring the majestic creature from a safe distance.
Indian Rock Python on Mumbai Pune Expressway. Seen yesterday evening at about 7 pm. Video credit – my colleague Mandar Kolekar pic.twitter.com/Rq2pRkcxdr
— Rahul Pathak (@rahulpathak1976) December 25, 2024
This incident follows a series of recent sightings of rock pythons in urban areas. Sometime back, another 6-foot-long rock python was seen slithering across the Aarey Forest Road in Mumbai, raising concerns about the increasing encounters between wildlife and humans in urban-adjacent areas.
A 6-foot Indian Rock Python was seen crossing a road in Aarey Forest on Tuesday night. A reminder of Aarey’s rich biodiversity and the need to protect wildlife corridors. #Aarey #Wildlife #Mumbai #conservation #aareyforest #indianrockpython
— Ranjeet Shamal Bajirao Jadhav (@ranjeetnature) September 25, 2024
Video Credit @athaniya_vasim… pic.twitter.com/d91NXgd13U
About Rock Pythons
The Indian rock python (Python molurus), a non-venomous species, is one of the largest snakes in the world, capable of growing up to 20 feet in length. Known for their muscular build and striking patterns, these snakes are often found in forests, grasslands, and swamps. However, habitat encroachment has led to frequent sightings in human-dominated landscapes.
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Rock pythons are constrictors, relying on their strength to subdue prey, which includes small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Despite their formidable size, they pose little threat to humans unless provoked. They play a critical role in the ecosystem by controlling rodent and other animal populations.
While such sightings can be thrilling, experts urge caution and recommend maintaining a safe distance to avoid stressing the animal. With habitat loss driving these reptiles closer to urban settings, incidents like these highlight the need for conservation efforts to protect both wildlife and human interests.
