Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Environment
Why in News?
Recently, wildlife enthusiasts photographed the rare Laudankia Vine Snake in Udaipur’s Ubeshwar area, the first sighting in 30 years.
- Common Name – Laudankia Vine Snake
- Scientific Name – Ahaetulla laudankia.
- Habitat – Diurnal and arboreal species inhabit dry deciduous forests, scrublands, hill slopes, and other natural green habitats.
- Appearance – Slender, vine-like body, chestnut-brown colour with fine black speckles, and pale white patches on the lower part of its head.
- A long, pointed snout, large eyes, and horizontal pupils.
- Length – Adults 80 cm – 1.5 metres
- Geographical distribution – Endemic to India, eastern ghats through central India to eastern Rajasthan.
- Due to its extremely limited records in Rajasthan, it is considered a rare species in the state.
- Diet – Mainly consists of lizards, geckos, small frogs, and small birds.
- Venom – It is mildly venomous, but its venom affects only small prey and is not dangerous to humans.
Reference
ToI | Laudankia Vine Snake
