Python from the Sundarbans enters locality, attempts to swallow a live goat
Photo: Agamir Somoy
Python from the Sundarbans enters human habitation, attempts to swallow a live goat
A video of a python attempting to swallow a whole goat has gone viral on social media from Sarankhola in Bagerhat. The video shows a massive python coiled around a black goat tied in the bushes, trying to swallow it. At that time, when locals gathered at the spot, the python abandoned its prey and slithered back into the forest.
Following the source of the video, it was learned that the sensational incident took place on Tuesday (June 16) afternoon in the Bat-tala village, near the Kolmateji patrol post under the Dhansagar Forest Station of the eastern Sundarbans.
The forest department and locals have confirmed the incident.
Local sources said that Rafiqul Islam, a resident of Bat-tala village, had put his goat to stake in the bushes along the banks of the Bhola River for grazing. Shortly before evening, he suddenly heard unusual cries from the goat and rushed over. There he saw a huge python constricting the goat's body and had already swallowed about half of it from the head side.
Terrified by the sight, Rafiqul started shouting for the neighbors. The villagers rushed to the spot and witnessed this rare scene.
Eyewitnesses said the python had swallowed about half of the goat. As more people gathered, the snake tried to resume swallowing at one point. Eventually, with the crowd shouting and making noise, the python released the goat and slowly crossed the nearby Bhola River, heading back towards the Sundarbans.
Rafiqul Islam, the goat's owner, said that he ran over upon hearing the goat's cries. He was terrified and started shouting for others. After a large crowd gathered, the python let go of the goat and went back into the forest.
Mohammad Sundar Ali, the forest guard in charge of the Kolmateji patrol post, said, "The location is very close to our office, so we went there quickly. But by the time we arrived, the python had already released the goat and gone into the forest. We found the goat dead at the scene."
