Asik SyedIn a remarkable wildlife moment, the elusive long-snouted vine snake (Ahaetulla longirostris) was recently rediscovered in the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, Uttar Pradesh. This marks the first recorded sighting in the state and only the second ever documented in India. Interestingly, the discovery occurred during a rhino release operation in the Palia division.
Distinctive Features of Long-Snouted Vine Snake
- Slender and elongated body: Typically green or brown, aiding in concealment.
- Notable rostrum (elongated nose): Helps the snake mimic twigs and leaves, making it nearly invisible among the trees.
- Mildly venomous: While it possesses venom, it poses little to no threat to humans.
Habitat and Natural Behavior
- An arboreal species, Ahaetulla longirostris thrives in tree-dominated landscapes.
- It exhibits remarkable camouflage abilities, blending seamlessly into foliage and branches.
- Its rediscovery highlights the ecological value of forested habitats in supporting lesser-known wildlife.
About Dudhwa Tiger Reserve
Located in the Terai belt of Uttar Pradesh near the Indo-Nepal border, Dudhwa Tiger Reserve is a mosaic of:
- Dudhwa National Park
- Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary
- Katarnia Ghat Wildlife Sanctuary
Established under Project Tiger, the reserve is home to a wide variety of species including:
- The Royal Bengal Tiger
- Indian rhinoceros
- Swamp deer
- Numerous bird species
The reserve plays a crucial role in biodiversity conservation in the region.
Potential for Future Research
The reappearance of the long-snouted vine snake presents exciting research opportunities:
- Detailed studies on its ecology, distribution, and behavior
- Conservation planning based on habitat needs
- Understanding its interactions within the ecosystem
Such efforts will contribute to better protection measures and further insights into this rare reptile’s role in the wild.
Neha Baruah
Professor
Asik Syed
