Red Sand Boa Snake | 30 Dec 2019
Why in News
Recently, a red sand boa snake (Eryx johnii), worth around ₹1.25 crore, was rescued from five persons, who were trying to sell it in Madhya Pradesh.
- It is a rare non-poisonous snake that is used for making certain medicines, cosmetics and in black magic, and is in huge demand in the international market.
- It is found in whole of India excluding North-east states after North-Bengal; also not found in Indian islands.
- Among layman it is famous as "Two-headed Snake" due to the presence of very thick tail having rounded end.
- The trade and possession of the red sand boa is an offence under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972. The species is listed under Schedule 4 of the Act. Also, it is listed in CITES Appendix II.