Venom, Cobras and India’s Snakebite Problem | Sumanth Bindhumadhav | Cyrus Says

Why are Indians so afraid of snakes and how much of what we believe is completely wrong? On this episode of Cyrus Says, Cyrus Broacha speaks with animal welfare and snake conservation advocate Sumanth Bindhumadhav about snake behaviour, snakebite prevention and the misinformation surrounding reptiles in India. Sumanth explains the difference between venomous and poisonous animals, introduces India’s “Big Four” medically significant snakes and reveals why a cobra’s hood is usually a sign of fear, not aggression. He also shares the correct response to a snakebite, including why cutting the wound, sucking out venom or tying a tourniquet can make things worse. The conversation explores India’s snakebite public health crisis, the lack of research and effective antivenom, dangerous advice still appearing in textbooks, unethical snake relocation and the role cinema has played in spreading animal myths. Along the way, expect stories about a 12-foot king cobra, a five-star hotel’s bizarre snake-catching scam, elephant conservation, Bangalore traffic, weight training and Cyrus asking questions nobody else would dare ask. Watch the full episode and share it with someone who still says “poisonous snake.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.