Away from the bustle, a park spotlights role of snakes in the ecosystem

Away from the bustle, a park spotlights role of snakes in the ecosystem

Snakes play a crucial role in the ecology. They control the rat population and contribute significantly to the food ecosystem. But this fact goes unappreciated. To recognise their importance, the Guindy Snake Park was established in Chennai in 1972.

The snake park is spread over one acre in the expansive Guindy National Park. It was established 52 years ago by American-born Indian naturalist and herpetologist Romulus Whitaker. It houses more than 35 species of snakes and reptiles, encompassing a combination of indigenous, exotic, and endangered breeds. There are a total of 22 snakes, five crocodiles, one tortoise, three turtles, and four lizards.

Among the highlights is the saltwater crocodile, which is said to be more than 30 years old, and the reticulated python, which is said to be more than 45 years old. Indochinese spitting cobra, an exotic species, also pulls in people from all over the country.

Also recognised as the first reptile park in India, the Guindy Snake Park serves as an educational platform for visitors to delve into the world of these species, fostering awareness and dispelling misconceptions.

The park boasts a magnificent collection of venomous and non-venomous snake species from all around the world and from the country. Common species like cobras, kraits, and rat snakes are put on the glass display along with the endangered species like the king cobra, Indian rock python, and Russell’s viper. The crocodiles and larger lizards are housed in spacious outdoor enclosures.

Visitors can observe these creatures up close in naturalistic enclosures and study their behaviour, habits, and conservation status first-hand. Among the 21 staff members employed at the park to take care of the reptiles and snakes, seven are from the Irular tribe, known for its traditional skill in catching snakes.

Romulus had initially established a snake park at Selaiyur, a city suburb, when he arrived in India. In 1972, he and fellow enthusiasts leased a plot of land from the Tamil Nadu Forest Department and established a trust to oversee the park’s daily operations.