Rediscovery in the Wild
A rare species of snake — the long-snouted vine snake (Ahaetulla longirostris) — has been spotted in Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, located in Uttar Pradesh’s Lakhimpur Kheri and Bahraich districts. This is only the second recorded sighting of the species in India.
Unique Characteristics of the Snake
The snake is known for its elongated snout, slender green body, and camouflage abilities among vines and foliage. Its scientific name, Ahaetulla longirostris, literally refers to its long snout, making it one of the most distinctive and elusive reptiles in the subcontinent.
First Discovered in 2020
The species was first documented as separate from similar vine snakes in a 2020 study by Indian herpetologists. Until then, it was often mistaken for related species due to its close resemblance and overlapping habitat.
Significance for Conservation
Wildlife experts have hailed the discovery as a positive sign of biodiversity in the Dudhwa region, which is already home to several rare and endangered species, including tigers, rhinos, and swamp deer. The presence of this snake reinforces Dudhwa’s ecological importance.
Call for Protection and Further Research
Scientists and forest officials emphasize the need for ongoing habitat protection and further field research to understand the distribution, behavior, and conservation status of this rare snake. Such rediscoveries highlight the hidden biodiversity still present in India’s forests.
