Context: Indian Red Sand Boa
Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) recovered two Indian Red Sand Boa snakes in Telangana during an operation against illegal wildlife trafficking.
Indian Red Sand Boa
- Scientific Name: Eryx johnii
- Non-venomous, burrowing snake endemic to the Indian subcontinent.
- Found in dry scrublands, sandy areas, agricultural fields, and semi-arid regions.
Why is it Important?
- Blunt tail resembles a second head, giving it a unique appearance.
- Illegally trafficked due to superstitions linked with black magic, wealth, and medicinal myths.
Conservation Status
- International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN): Near Threatened (NT)
- Protected under Schedule I of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
- Trade, capture, or possession is illegal without permission.
