In a remarkable display of youthful dedication, 15-year-old Sampath Kantimahanti from Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, has garnered significant attention for his groundbreaking conservation project, “Snake Speak.” As reported by Local 18 Andhra Pradesh, this initiative is focused on the preservation of endangered snake species. Kantimahanti’s venture not only aims to protect these vital creatures but also strives to educate the public, including children, adults, and farmers, on the importance of snake conservation.
Growing up in an environment that fostered a love for animals, Sampath was inspired by his experiences with his father through their involvement in Green Mercy, an organization dedicated to environmental causes. This background laid the foundation for his current project. Alongside four dedicated friends, Sampath launched Snake Speak as part of a broader wildlife conservation effort to address the plight of snakes facing extinction.
The team behind Snake Speak is actively engaging with local communities through a series of awareness seminars at schools and colleges. Each member plays a crucial role: Sampath focuses on rescuing snakes, while his friends Saket Ram and Bhargava document these rescues and share them through social media platforms managed by their colleague, Joshya Natalia. This multimedia approach has proven effective in raising awareness about the critical need to save snakes.
As a result of their efforts, residents of Srikakulam are increasingly recognizing the significance of snake conservation. When snakes are spotted in residential areas, locals are now more inclined to reach out to Sampath and his team. The group promptly rescues these snakes and relocates them to safe, uninhabited areas. In addition to their rescue operations, the team is working diligently to dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding snakes, further contributing to their protection and the broader conservation message.