Princh Mondal Olif, Bagerhat District Correspondent

A python that strayed into a residential area near the Sundarbans was rescued by the Forest Department and later released back into its natural habitat after a health assessment.

According to the official report of the Station Officer (SO) of Bogi Forest Station under the Sharankhola Range, the incident took place on Friday (July 17) when local residents spotted a 6-foot-long python in Amragachhia village of Mathbaria Upazila. The sighting created concern among villagers, who immediately informed the Forest Department.

Responding promptly, a rescue team from Bogi Forest Station reached the scene and safely captured the snake without causing harm to either the animal or local residents. The python was then taken to the forest station, where its physical condition was examined.

Forest officials said the snake was found to be healthy. Following the instructions of the higher authorities and in accordance with wildlife conservation guidelines, it was released deep inside the Sundarbans near Bogi Forest Station on the same day.

According to the Forest Department, the python may have entered the locality while searching for food or after wandering away from its natural habitat. Officials noted that such incidents occasionally occur during the monsoon season, when rising water levels and changes in the forest environment may force wild animals to move beyond their usual range.

Deputy Ranger Kazi Tamil Rasul, Station Officer of Bogi Forest Station, said the Forest Department remains committed to protecting both wildlife and local communities. He urged residents not to panic or harm wild animals if they are spotted in residential areas, but instead to immediately inform the Forest Department so trained personnel can safely handle the situation.

The Forest Department also said it is continuing regular patrols and public awareness activities in forest-adjacent communities to reduce human-wildlife conflict and ensure the conservation of the Sundarbans' rich biodiversity.