By The News Observer Desk,
Dandeli, July 24: Continuous heavy rainfall in the Malenadu region of Uttara Kannada district has caused the Kali River to swell, leading to increased movement of wild animals and aquatic reptiles into nearby residential areas.
A baby crocodile measuring around four feet in length was spotted on a road in Patel Nagar, Dandeli, on Thursday night, creating panic among local residents. On noticing the reptile, residents immediately alerted the Forest Department and local snake rescuer Razak Shah.
Forest Department personnel, along with Razak Shah, rushed to the spot and safely rescued the crocodile after a careful operation. The reptile was later released into a suitable natural habitat, preventing any untoward incident.
According to local residents, the baby crocodile is believed to have entered the residential area through roadside drains or water channels connected to the overflowing Kali River following the heavy rains.
The Forest Department has urged people living near riverbanks and low-lying areas to remain alert during the ongoing monsoon. Residents have also been advised not to attempt to catch or handle wild animals or reptiles on their own, and instead immediately inform the concerned authorities.
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: Saikiran Babrekar