Cornered Cobra | Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Jithesh Pai’s Image

Jithesh Pai (India) watches as a Western Ghats king cobra is rescued by a conservation team.

Jithesh was accompanying the Agumbe Rainforest Research Station (ARRS) rescue and release team.

He came face to face with the world’s largest venomous snake as it sought refuge in a house.

He used a head torch to light the scene before the cobra was safely caught and released into the forest.

During the breeding season, king cobras often go into human settlements in search of mates and food.

Organisations like ARRS are running conservation and education efforts. They monitor and relocate snakes for the safety of both humans and animals.