Several snakes died due to lack of care and proper nourishment in Peshawar zoo. Among the snakes that died, many were rare and expensive species. According to the zoo authorities, the snakes died of the growing cold.
The tourists complained that the foul smell of the dead snakes had made it intolerable to visit the snake house. The management has tried to hide their heads in the sand, stating that the snake keeper has gone out of the city. The zoo authorities have ensured that the dead snakes will be removed at their earliest once the keeper is back.
The snakes tend to hibernate during the cold weather. Like frogs and turtles, snakes are ectotherms. Their body temperatures depend on the temperature of their environment, which causes a huge problem during winter. Changing their habitat and not providing them with ample spaces where they can hibernate and stay warm creates a life-threatening situation for these reptiles.
The Director of Peshawar zoo said that the snakes become weak in winter. He further said that once the snake dies, it is replaced with another one.