15-foot Burmese python rescued from Rohingya camp in Ukhiya

A 15-foot-long Burmese python weighing around 30kg was rescued from a Rohingya camp in Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar, and later released into a protected forest, officials said.

The python was rescued from the camp area around midnight on Sunday (August 23) and kept in safe custody by the Forest Department.

Later, it was released at about 1pm on Monday in a suitable habitat within the protected forest under the Mocharkhola Beat.

Forest officials identified the snake as a Burmese python (Python bivittatus), measuring approximately 15 feet in length and weighing about 30kg.

Officials said wild animals often venture into human settlements and areas around the camps during the monsoon in search of food and shelter. They urged residents not to harm or kill wildlife and instead inform the Forest Department when such animals are spotted.

Five pythons rescued from different parts of Ukhiya in July and August have so far been released into protected forests, according to the department.

Ukhiya Range Officer Shahinul Islam said wildlife plays an important role in maintaining ecological balance. Safely rescuing animals that enter human settlements and returning them to suitable natural habitats can help protect both people and wildlife.