Revista de gestión de la biodiversidad y silvicultura

Human-King Cobra Conflict in Western Ghats Region of Sringeri, Karnataka, India

Abhishek Bharadwaj R and Devi Prasad AG

The study investigates the conflict issues between humans and King Cobra in the Western Ghats region of Sringeri, Karnataka. Extensive field exploration was undertaken in the study area coupled with personal interaction with people, professional snake rescuers and handlers for data collection. The study has revealed that King Cobras were attracted towards human-dominated landscapes as they provide them with plenty of food and retreat sites giving rise to conflicts with humans. The conflict issues were studied during the breeding and non-breeding season of King Cobra. The study focuses on unraveling the causes of conflicts and understanding the nutrition and behavior pattern that would help in successful rescue and relocation of King Cobras. The study helps in reducing the negative interaction between humans and King Cobras to have a harmonious coexistence.