Sultan Al Enam, Jhenaidah Correspondent

A rare yellow snake discovered in Bhabanagar village of Maheshpur upazila in Jhenaidah has created a stir in the area. The snake was spotted last night near a house in the village. Out of fear, locals beat the snake to death. The dead snake has been preserved in a freezer, and preparations are underway to display it in a museum, said local nature enthusiast Nazmul Haque.

Nazmul Haque said the rescued snake is completely bright yellow in color. After examination, it is believed to be an albino monocled cobra, commonly known as an albino “gokhra.” While normal cobras are usually black or brown, genetic mutation causing albinism prevents melanin production in this snake. As a result, its body appears entirely white or yellow compared to typical cobras.

Experts say albino cobras are extremely rare as well as highly venomous. A cobra bite can push a person to death within minutes. They warned people not to go near the snake even if it appears dead, as a snake's nervous system can remain active for some time after death.

Wildlife conservationists state that if such a snake is found, people should keep a safe distance and immediately contact the forest department or experienced snake handlers. Albino snakes are very vulnerable in the wild, so rescuing them alive can play an important role in conservation.

Although albino snakes are occasionally sighted in Bangladesh, such occurrences are very rare. The snake recovered in Bhabanagar has therefore sparked curiosity among locals. Nazmul Haque said that if the snake can be preserved in a museum, it will be valuable for future research and exhibition.