This Monday (24), Agents from the Environmental Defense Group (GDA) Ipson Pavani, from the Municipal Civil Guard (GCM) of São Leopoldo, rescued a poisonous snake in the Campestre neighborhood. The capture took place during a patrol on Rua Walter Rosa, when the team saw a jararaca (Bothrops jararaca) crossing the road.
Using newly acquired equipment, agents captured the snake, and fortunately there were no injuries in the process. In contact with the Municipal Zoo of Canoas, it was instructed that the jararaca be released in a forest area far from homes, so that it could return to its natural environment.
pit viper
The jararaca is the species that most causes accidents with snakes in Brazil, responsible for 69.3% of the bites recorded in the country. Symptoms of a pit viper bite in humans include local pain and swelling, and may have purple spots and bleeding from the wound. In some cases, bleeding occurs in mucous membranes, such as the gums, and complications such as infection and necrosis in the bite region, in addition to kidney failure.
The pit viper (Bothrops jararaca) is a common snake in southeastern Brazil, but there are several species of pit viper (genus Bothrops) throughout the country. It can be found from Bahia to Rio Grande do Sul, associated with the Atlantic Forest, and occasionally in border regions of Paraguay and Argentina.
This snake has distinct characteristics, such as the variation of colors in its pattern and drawings in the shape of a horseshoe on the sides of the body. It is nocturnal and hunts mainly small mammals, although when young it feeds on lizards and centipedes. Its venom varies according to age, with an anticoagulant action in juveniles and a more intense inflammatory action in adults.
Environmental Protection
The chief inspector of the GDA, Emerson dos Anjos, clarified that the agents are trained to capture this type of venomous snake. He warned the population not to try to capture the animal, as it can react aggressively if it feels threatened. The orientation is to contact the responsible professionals immediately.
In addition, it is important to emphasize that it is forbidden to hurt or kill this type of animal, according to article 29 of law 9605/98. In case of contact with any kind of wild animal, the Municipal Civil Guard can be called by calling 153.
How to proceed in case of a bite
The Municipal Department of Health (Semsad) emphasizes that in cases of bites from venomous animals, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. It is important to inform the health professional as much of the animal’s characteristics as type, color and size. If possible, before medical attention, you can wash the bite site with soap and water, keep the victim at rest and with the affected limb elevated.
