Bihar — In a rare and baffling incident that has both stunned locals and drawn national attention, a one-year-old boy in Bihar’s West Champaran district survived after biting a cobra to death.
The child, identified as Govinda, was playing in his home in Bettiah on Friday afternoon when a two-foot-long cobra reportedly slithered into the residence, according to local reports. Mistaking the snake for a toy, the toddler picked it up and bit it — reportedly tearing the reptile into two halves.
The cobra died on the spot. Govinda, however, fell unconscious shortly after and was rushed by his family to the nearby Majhauliya Primary Health Centre. From there, he was referred to the Bettiah Government Medical College and Hospital for further observation and treatment.
Medical officials said the boy showed no signs of envenomation.
“Fortunately, the child has not shown any symptoms of venom toxicity. He remains under medical supervision but is out of danger,” said Dr. Devikant Mishra, Deputy Superintendent at the Bettiah hospital, in a statement to Live Hindustan.
Locals speculate that the snake may have come unusually close to the child, triggering a reflexive response. “It seemed like a natural reaction by the child. He picked it up and bit it instinctively,” said one resident, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Wildlife experts note that such encounters, while highly unusual, may become more frequent due to habitat disruptions. “Heavy monsoon rainfall and rapid, unregulated construction are pushing snakes into human settlements. Sightings spike during this season,” said a regional wildlife officer.
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Indeed, snake sightings have surged in several Indian cities this July. In Gurugram, Haryana, over 85 snakes were rescued from residential areas amid monsoon downpours.
India continues to grapple with the world’s highest number of snakebite fatalities, with cobras classified among the country’s deadliest venomous species.
Authorities in Bihar have not yet confirmed whether any follow-up action will be taken, though forest and animal control departments have been alerted to monitor the area for further reptile activity.
The Chenab Times News Desk
