Sighting of strange creatures post-flood in Barak Valley raises curiosity, writes Prof. Parthankar Choudhury

July 10: This unprecedented flood has not just caused distress to mankind alone, but to lot many of other animals as well.

Within last week, we have got reports of Bengal Monitor Lizards from three different places. The 1st report was from Hailakandi on 4th July, 2nd report from North Karimganj on 5th July and on 6th July from the Katigorah areas of Barak Valley.

On 10 July, reports came in of sighting such a creature at Lane No.5, 2nd Link Road, Silchar. But this one does not appear like Bengal Monitor Lizard, rather, it seems to be Asian Water Monitor Lizard ( Scientific name – Varanus salvator). A clear picture would have helped to identify the animal with more authenticity.

Asian water monitor is widely distributed from India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and the other south east Asian countries. It inhabits primarily lowland freshwater areas.

The Asian water monitor is semiaquatic and opportunistic feeder. it inhabits a variety of natural habitats. It has been known to adapt and thrive in agricultural areas as well as cities with canal systems, where they are not hunted or persecuted.

The preferred habitat of both Bengal & water monitor lizard is marshy land, and when all such areas have gone under water… where they can move on? There’s no ‘Noah’s Ark’ for this and similar other species!

We have a team of about half a dozen of volunteers/ wildlife enthusiasts who are active on field and readily respond as and when any distress calls are received regarding wildlife. The varsity team works in close liaison with the local forest officials.

In case of any such reports in near or distant future, I would urge upon the common public not to cause any harm to the animal, and immediately contact us, or the local forest officials for prompt action.

Construction of a rescue cum rehabilitation center at Rajanikhal (Dholai) is underway, and would perhaps require another couple of years for that to be full functional. In coming days, once it is made operational, all such animals can find shelter therein.

Prof. Parthankar Choudhury, former Head, Department of Ecology & Environmental Science, Assam University & a renowned environmentalist.