Poison, Poachers & Rescue: Inside Bihar’s Hidden Wetland War

YouTube Description Poison, Poachers & Rescue: Inside Bihar’s Hidden Wetland War Join Anshu Giri, Bihar Wildlife Conservationist, on a real ground-level conservation patrol at Baba Kewal Sthan Wetland, Bihar, where every step reveals a new challenge for wildlife and the fragile wetland ecosystem. This 5-minute field journey captures an intense day of wetland patrolling, illegal fishing-net removal, bird protection, snake rescue, community awareness and habitat conservation. 🕸️ Removing Dangerous Fishing Nets The patrol begins with the removal of extensive fishing nets spread across the wetland. Some of the nets were around 100–150 meters long, with multiple nets found in the area. Removing these nets is physically exhausting, but it is necessary because abandoned or illegally placed nets can become dangerous traps for birds, snakes, fish and other wetland wildlife. There was a time when I even tried cutting nets with my teeth. Today, we use proper tools and continue the same fight on the ground. 🐦 Thousands of Openbill Storks — But A Serious Threat Further into the wetland, we encounter an incredible sight — thousands of Openbill Storks gathered together. But these beautiful birds also face serious threats around human-inhabited areas. According to local information, some bird-feeding and resting locations are reportedly targeted using poisoned snails as bait. Birds consuming contaminated food may become weak, collapse and die. The reported practice of capturing or killing birds for meat and other body parts is a serious concern for wildlife conservation, and stopping such practices requires continuous monitoring, awareness and cooperation with local communities and authorities. 🐦 A Possible Poisoning Case During the patrol, we noticed a bird that appeared unusually weak and suspected that it might have consumed something toxic. We approached it for a possible rescue, but the bird suddenly flew away. We continued monitoring the area and moved further into the wetland. 🐍 Checkered Keelback Snake Rescue A little later, we came across several fishermen. Suddenly, we learned that a snake had been struck inside the water. We immediately went there and safely removed the snake from the situation. After carefully checking it, we found no obvious external injury. The snake was gently cleaned and safely released. It was a Checkered Keelback, locally known in the area as Dhorba. We also used the opportunity to speak with the fishermen about snake safety and wildlife awareness. Many people fear snakes because of myths, panic and misinformation. Fishermen also explained that snakes and monitor lizards sometimes get caught in fishing nets and hooks, creating conflict between people and wildlife. 🤝 Awareness Is As Important As Rescue Wildlife rescue alone cannot solve the problem. That is why we also spoke with the local community and explained why snakes, birds, monitor lizards and other wetland species are important to the ecosystem. The goal is simple: Protect wildlife. Reduce conflict. Stop unnecessary killing. Protect the wetland. Continuous field patrolling and community awareness can make a real difference. 🌸 A Beautiful Conservation Surprise Towards the end of the patrol, we discovered an incredibly beautiful lotus habitat. Seeing such a healthy and naturally preserved lotus area in the wetland was one of the highlights of the day. These remaining natural habitats are more than just beautiful places — they are part of Bihar's natural heritage and provide important habitat for wetland biodiversity. As the evening arrived, we completed another long day of field patrolling. This journey is not just about removing nets or rescuing individual animals. It is about protecting an entire ecosystem. Baba Kewal Wetland needs our attention, awareness and protection. The patrol will continue. Protect Wetlands. Protect Wildlife. Protect Bihar’s Natural Heritage. 📍 Location: Baba Kewal Sthan Wetland, Bihar 🎥 Field Conservation: Anshu Giri – Bihar Wildlife Conservationist #BiharWildlife #BabaKewal #WetlandConservation #WildlifeConservation #OpenbillStork #BirdConservation #SnakeRescue #CheckeredKeelback #WildlifeRescue #Wetland #NatureConservation #WildlifeAwareness #Bihar #AntiPoaching #SaveWildlife