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Three Sistan Sand Boas Officially Recorded in Rajasthan, India
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What Happened?
Three live Sistan sand boas have been documented in Rajasthan's Sikar district, marking the first confirmed record of this species in India. Previously known from Iran and Pakistan, their discovery raises questions about their distribution.
Key points
- The Sistan sand boa (Eryx sistanensis) was documented in Sikar district, Rajasthan.
- The first snake was found on August 19, 2025, in a cowshed.
- The second was caught by a local boy on September 12, 2025.
- The third was discovered on September 21, 2025, in a construction site.
- The species resembles the Indian red sand boa, complicating identification.
- The Sistan sand boa is currently listed under Schedule II of the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 2022.
Key insights
- The Sistan sand boa's resemblance to the Indian red sand boa may increase its risk of being captured in illegal wildlife trade.
- The species' presence in India could indicate a broader distribution in northwestern regions.
- Conservation efforts may need to address the potential threats posed by superstitious practices involving both species.
Why it matters
The discovery of the Sistan sand boa highlights the need for further research on its distribution and conservation status.
Tags
Entities
Sistan sand boa· SpeciesRajasthan· StateSikar· CityEryx sistanensis· SpeciesIUCN· Organization
Source
Times of India
