This image shows: The 13 foot python. Wildlife conservationists in India pulled off a remarkable rescue of a 13 foot, 55 kg python from a well in Kiraoli, Agra in India this autumn. As the harvest season reaches its peak, farmers across Uttar Pradesh in India are reporting an increase in python sightings in their fields. The most challenging rescue took place when a 13-foot-long Indian rock python (Python molurus) was spotted inside a deep well in Kiraoli, Agra. Forest department staff and farmers in the area reported the sighting and contacted the charity Wildlife SOS. A team of two rescuers arrived on the scene, where they faced the daunting task of extracting the enormous snake from the well. The rescue operation took some time due to the python’s size and the depth of the well. The team devised a creative solution by using a jute bag, which was lowered into the well. One of the rescuers gently manoeuvred the python, guiding it into the bag. The python was safely retrieved and is currently under observation and care. Debbie Haynes, Manager – UK, Wildlife SOS, said: “Indian rock pythons are known to be heavy but the sheer size and weight of this individual was surprising even for our team. However, our team is extremely skilled which allowed them to retrieve the snake without causing any harm.” On the same day, Wildlife SOS conducted three additional python rescues. In Kurkunda, Mathura, a 10-foot-long Indian rock python was found resting in a potato field. The farmers, who had anticipated its presence due to visible track marks, promptly contacted the Wildlife SOS hotline. A rescue team, equipped with specialised tools, arrived quickly and safely relocated the python. Meanwhile, in Dhana Teja, a 7-foot-long python was discovered near a bitumen drum filling facility, and shortly after, another call came from Parkham Village, where an 8-foot-long python was spotted in a paddy field. In each case, Wildlife SOS rescuers demonstrated expertise and efficiency, ensuring the reptiles were safely rescued and returned to the wild without harm. Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS, said: “This increase in python sightings is likely a natural occurrence with the change in weather and harvesting activities, which draw pythons seeking safe resting areas. We appreciate the farmers' cooperation in calling for assistance, which helps us protect these animals while maintaining the safety of people on the ground.” Baiju Raj M.V, Director- Conservation Projects of Wildlife SOS, added: “We see our work as a bridge between local people and wild animals, offering safe solutions for such encounters. With each rescue, we strengthen the dialogue between people and the wildlife around them.” Where: Kiraoli, Agra , India When: 05 Nov 2024 Credit: Wildlife SOS/Cover Images **EDITORIAL USE ONLY. MATERIALS ONLY TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH EDITORIAL STORY. THE USE OF THESE MATERIALS FOR ADVERTISING, MARKETING OR ANY OTHER COMMERCIAL PURPOSE IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. MATERIAL COPYRIGHT REMAINS WITH STATED SUPPLIER.**