24 king cobra hatchlings released after successful community conservation effort in Anakapalli

In a remarkable example of community-led conservation, Rajampeta village in Sankaram Panchayat, under the Chodavaram Forest Range of the Anakapalle division, has emerged as a model after 24 king cobra hatchlings were successfully released into the wild following nearly six weeks of protection and monitoring of a nest.According to the A.P. Forest Department, the king cobra nest was discovered on June 6, 2026, in Rajampeta village. Recognising the ecological significance of the species, the forest officials, along with local residents and members of the Eastern Ghats Wildlife Society, decided to join hands and safeguard the nest.The area was secured, and the nest was monitored around the clock to ensure that the eggs remained undisturbed until hatching. After nearly six weeks of careful protection, all 24 eggs hatched successfully. On July 17, the hatchlings were released into the Sankaram Reserve Forest in the presence of Forest Department officials, wildlife experts, and members of the local community.Forest officials described the operation as a significant conservation success, highlighting the crucial role played by villagers, who cooperated with authorities and ensured that the nest remained protected throughout the incubation period. “The achievement reflects the support of Minister of Forests K. Pawan Kalyan and the government’s continued efforts to promote wildlife conservation and peaceful coexistence between humans and wild animals through the H.A.N.U.M.A.N. initiative,” they said.Officials also acknowledged the contribution of the Eastern Ghats Wildlife Society for providing technical support and creating awareness among local residents. The department expressed hope that the successful conservation of the king cobra nest would encourage similar community participation in protecting wildlife and conserving biodiversity across the State. Published - July 18, 2026 06:53 pm IST