Sistan Sand Boa Found for First Time in India

The Sistan sand boa, a species previously documented only in Iran and Pakistan, has been scientifically recorded in India for the first time. Researchers discovered three of these non-venomous snakes in Rajasthan's Sikar district during surveys conducted in 2025. The findings were published in the Journal of Threatened Taxa on May 26 of this year.

Vivek Sharma and Dharmendra Khandal identified the snakes based on their distinctive body shape, color, and scales. One snake was found in August 2025 within a cattle shelter, another in September 2025 in a house courtyard, and the third near an under-construction home. These discoveries indicate the Sistan sand boa might inhabit farms and areas near human settlements, not just sand dunes.

A key difference between the Sistan sand boa and the commonly found red sand boa in India lies in their tail structure. The Sistan sand boa's tail tapers gradually to a point, whereas the red sand boa's tail remains thick for longer before narrowing. While similar-looking snakes have been observed in Rajasthan for years, definitive scientific confirmation was lacking until this study.

Further research is necessary to determine the full distribution and population status of the Sistan sand boa in Rajasthan, as well as to assess its conservation needs. The current findings suggest a broader habitat range for the species than initially understood.