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Snake Speek Project from Andhra Pradesh among top 50 at National Geographic Slingshot Challenge

Ancient rock art discovered on a rock shelter near Alatam along the banks of the Krishna River in the Nallamala Tiger Reserve Forest, Andhra Pradesh, by Epigraphy Branch of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), on Saturday (June 13). | Photo Credit: ARRANGEMENT An extensive epigraphical survey being conducted by the Epigraphy Branch of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in the Nallamala Tiger Reserve Forest has brought to light a rich collection of inscriptions spanning nearly 1,400 years, offering fresh insights into the region’s political, cultural and linguistic history.Speaking to The Hindu, during a field visit, on Saturday (June 13) Director (Epigraphy), ASI, Mysuru, K. Munirathnam Reddy said that in an ongoing survey the teams had in the last three days documented and copied 25 inscriptions dating from the 2nd century CE to the 16th century CE. The inscriptions belong to several prominent dynasties, including the Satavahanas, Eastern Chalukyas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Potapi Cholas, Kakatiyas, Reddy rulers and the Vijayanagara Empire.The survey team explored remote locations in the Nallamala Tiger Reserve and the Yerragondapalem region. On the first day (June 11, 2026), eight inscriptions were copied from villages such as Gangaram Penta, Meetonta, Palitla, Ponnalabavi and Jillalapadugu. These inscriptions, written in Telugu, date from the 7th to the 16th centuries CE.On the second day (June 12, 2026), the team documented 10 inscriptions belonging to the Kalyani Chalukya, Potapi Chola, Kakatiya and Vijayanagara periods, written in Kannada and Telugu scripts and dating between the 11th and 16th centuries CE.The third day (June 13, 2026) yielded seven more inscriptions, including rare Satavahana records written in Prakrit language and Brahmi script. The newly documented inscriptions also include records of the Eastern Chalukya, Reddy and Vijayanagara dynasties. Ancient rock art discovered on a rock shelter near Alatam along the banks of the Krishna River in the Nallamala Tiger Reserve Forest, Andhra Pradesh, by Epigraphy Branch of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), on Saturday (June 13). | Photo Credit: ARRANGEMENT Adding to the significance of the survey, ancient rock art was identified near Alatam on the banks of the Krishna River inside the Nallamala Tiger Reserve. Preliminary assessments suggest that the megalithic and early historic paintings date back to around 1500 BCE, indicating human activity in the region more than 3,500 years ago.Mr. Reddy expressed gratitude to the Government of Andhra Pradesh, Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan, and the Forest authorities for extending support to the survey team operating in the challenging terrain of the reserve forest.The discoveries are expected to contribute significantly to the understanding of Andhra Pradesh’s ancient history, inscriptions and cultural heritage. Published - June 13, 2026 04:50 pm IST

The HinduJun 13

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outbreakdoesdeadly

From shape-shifting birds to snake princes: How ‘Voices in the Wind’ maps Himalaya’s living folk tales

3 min readMay 31, 2026 04:54 PM IST Venomous snakes rank among nature’s most feared predators, but in the wild, even deadly serpents are not always at the top of the food chain. Across forests, grasslands, deserts, and wetlands, several bird species have evolved remarkable hunting skills that allow them to attack and consume highly venomous snakes. Using sharp talons, powerful beaks, lightning-fast reflexes, and aerial precision, these birds play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling snake populations.Here are some of the most fascinating birds known for hunting deadly snakes. Secretary Bird Native to the savannas of sub-Saharan Africa, the secretary bird is perhaps the world’s most famous snake hunter. Unlike most birds of prey, it hunts mainly on foot, using its long legs to stomp snakes with immense force. The bird is known to attack dangerous species such as cobras and puff adders with astonishing speed and precision. Crested Serpent Eagle Found across India and Southeast Asia, the crested serpent eagle specialises in hunting reptiles, particularly snakes. With keen eyesight and powerful talons, it swoops down from tree perches to capture prey. It is often spotted carrying snakes back to its nest. An adult brown snake eagle (Photo: Wikipedia)Snake Eagle Several species of snake eagles, especially the short-toed snake eagle, are renowned reptile hunters. Found in parts of Europe, Africa, and Asia, these raptors hover high above open terrain before diving onto snakes. Thick scales on their legs help protect them from bites. Roadrunner Popularly known through cartoons, roadrunners are surprisingly fierce predators in real life. Found in the deserts of the United States and Mexico, they hunt small snakes, lizards, and scorpions. They use rapid strikes and repeated blows against rocks to subdue prey.Story continues below this ad Laughing falcon (Photo: Wikipedia)Laughing Falcon Nicknamed the “snake hawk,” the laughing falcon is a specialised snake hunter found in Central and South America. It feeds heavily on venomous snakes, including coral snakes and pit vipers. Its strong hooked beak helps sever the snake’s spine before consumption. Great Horned Owl One of North America’s most powerful nocturnal predators, the great horned owl occasionally hunts snakes, including venomous rattlesnakes. Silent flight and powerful talons make it an effective ambush predator after dark. White-Bellied Sea Eagle This large raptor, commonly seen near coastlines and wetlands across Asia and Australia, feeds on fish, reptiles, and water snakes. It often snatches snakes directly from the water using its powerful claws.

Indian ExpressMay 31

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