The Wildlife and Nature Conservation Trust (WNCT) has brought out a 28-page educational publication titled “Knowing Snakes and Making Coimbatore Snakebite-Free”, aimed at enhancing public understanding of snakes and promoting coexistence through scientifically grounded information.

The book was formally released on Monday at the Coimbatore Collectorate by District Collector Pawankumar G. Giriyappanavar; Venkatesh, Field Director, Anamalai Tiger Reserve and Conservator of Forests, Coimbatore Circle; former District Forest Officer Badhrasamy; and Forest Range Officer Thirumurugan.

M. Sirajdeen, coordinator of WNCT and author of the book, told The Hindu the book provided information on the ‘big four’ venomous snakes, visual identification methods, first response after a snakebite, and measures to minimise encounters, particularly in residential and agricultural settings. It also included safety protocols for labourers under the 100-day employment scheme, who were more vulnerable to snakebites.

“Our outreach will prioritise rural communities and educational institutions,” he said. “While human-wildlife conflict often centres on large mammals, snakebites cause nearly 50,000 deaths annually in India. This book aims to bridge knowledge gaps, reduce fear, and highlight the ecological importance of snakes.”

The book, currently available in Tamil, will be distributed free of cost to government libraries, Primary Health Centres, and schools. An English edition is planned. WNCT intends to expand the initiative across Tamil Nadu following its rollout in Coimbatore.