Kangan, July 13: In a remarkable display of courage and compassion, well-known wildlife rescuer and birder Jafar Majeed safely retrieved a venomous Pit Viper—locally referred to as Puhur—from a residential house in Cherwan village of Kangan, Jammu & Kashmir.The unexpected presence of the snake caused panic among the residents. However, swift response by Jafar helped avoid any harm. Upon receiving a call, he promptly reached the site, secured the snake using proper techniques, and later released it into a suitable wild habitat away from human dwellings.This isn’t the first time Jafar Majeed has stepped in to protect both people and wildlife. Last year, he was applauded for safely removing a Levantine viper from a kitchen, and in 2018, he rescued a female Hangul fawn, a rare and critically endangered deer species native to Kashmir.A passionate birder and wildlife conservationist, Jafar has been actively involved in saving injured or displaced animals across the valley. His dedication to wildlife rescue has earned him respect not only in his hometown but across Jammu & Kashmir.“Snakes like the Pit Viper are often misunderstood. They play a critical role in controlling pests, and fear should not drive us to kill them. Education and awareness are essential,” Jafar told Rising Kashmir following the rescue.Residents praised his timely action, saying his intervention ensured safety while avoiding harm to the snake. Environmental activists have also highlighted Jafar’s continued work as an example of community-based conservation.
