Last Saturday, January 27th, a notable event occurred in the Santa Tereza neighborhood, in São Leopoldo, when a dangerous coral snake was found in the backyard of a house. This rescue operation was conducted by the highly trained team of the Environmental Defense Group (GDA) of the Municipal Civil Guard, under the leadership of Ipson Pavani.
With skill and care, the agents located and identified the reptile as a true coral snake, known for its toxicity and risk to humans.
Coral Snake Dangers
Generally living in hidden places, such as under trunks and leaves, coral snakes are notorious for the potency of their venom. This poison, which is neurotoxic in nature, acts quickly on the human body, affecting the nervous system. Symptoms such as numbness at the site of the bite, severe breathing difficulties and eyelid ptosis are indicative of its poisoning, which can be fatal in a matter of hours for an adult.
Advanced Agent Training
It is important to highlight that São Leopoldo GDA agents have undergone specialized training in the management of wild animals. One of these training sessions took place in May 2022 at the Canoas Municipal Zoo. This training was attended by five agents from the group and was taught by qualified professionals in the field, including biologist Gabriela Souza and veterinarian Isadora Favreto, both linked to the Wild Animal Screening Center (Cetas) from the zoo. This preparation was essential to ensure the success and safety of the recent coral snake rescue, reaffirming GDA’s commitment to environmental protection and public safety.