On Saturday, November 11, the São Leopoldo Environmental Defense Group (GDA), led by Ipson Pavani, carried out a delicate and risky operation. The Command and Monitoring Center (Cecom) received a call via number 153, reporting the presence of a cross snake (Bothrops alternatus) in the backyard of a house in the Arroio da Manteiga neighborhood.
The urutu-cruzeira snake is known for its potent venom, which can cause skin necrosis and even lead to death if not treated in time. GDA agents managed to rescue the snake and contacted the Canoas Municipal Zoo to obtain guidance on the proper management of the reptile.
Through images, the snake was identified as an adult specimen, measuring approximately 110cm in length. The zoo’s veterinarian, Ana Paula Morel, classified the animal as a magnificent example of the species and suggested that, due to the shape and volume of the tail, it could be a female ready for laying. She recommended that the snake be released in an area far from the urban center, on the banks of the Rio dos Sinos, which is its natural habitat.
The GDA chief inspector, Emerson dos Anjos, highlighted that agents have adequate training to capture this type of venomous snake. He also warned the population never to try to capture an animal, as it may react aggressively if it feels threatened. The advice is to contact the GDA immediately via telephone 153.
The urutu-cruzeira snake is a snake Large venomous creature with a short tail. Its diet is made up of small mammals and it has day and night habits. The Cruzeiro snake inhabits open and humid areas and can be found in the central-west, southeast and south regions of Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Argentina.
Finally, it is important to remember that hurting or killing an animal is considered an environmental crime, according to article 29 of law 9,605/98. The penalty for this crime is imprisonment for six months to one year and a fine.
Accidents with venomous animals
The Municipal Health Department (Semsad) advises that in cases of bites from venomous animals, the person should be taken immediately to the hospital. Centenary Hospital.
What to do in case of an accident with venomous animals
- Seek medical attention immediately;
- Tell the health professional as many of the animal’s characteristics as possible, such as: type of animal, color, size, among others;
- If possible, and if such action does not delay the patient’s visit to medical care, wash the bite site with soap and water, keep the victim at rest and with the affected limb elevated until arrival at the emergency room;
- In accidents involving the extremities of the body, such as arms, hands, legs and feet, remove accessories that could worsen the clinical condition, such as rings, tied ribbons and tight shoes;
- Do not tie a tourniquet to the injured limb and, much less, cut and/or apply any type of substance (coffee powder, alcohol, among others) to the bite site;
- Do not try to “suck out the poison”, this action only increases the chances of local infection.
Training
In May 2022, GDA agents participated in training for the rescue and management of wild animals at the Canoas Municipal Zoo. The training was attended by five GDA agents. The activity was coordinated by the biologist, Gabriela Souza and the veterinarian, Isadora Favreto. Both work at the zoo’s Wild Animal Screening Center (Cetas).
