The Laudankia Vine Snake (Ahaetulla laudankia) was photographed in the Ubeshwar wildlife area of Udaipur on 12 July 2026.
Species & Taxonomy
- Scientific name: Ahaetulla laudankia.
- Described: 2019.
- Endemism: Endemic to India.
Identification
- Colouration: Chestnut-brown body with fine black speckles and pale white patches on lower head.
- Size: Typically 0.8–1.5 m in total length.
- Activity pattern: Diurnal.
Habitat & Behaviour
- Habitat: Dry deciduous forest, scrubland and hill slopes; primarily arboreal.
- Feeding and venom: Mildly venomous, rear-fanged; uses enlarged posterior maxillary teeth to deliver venom to small prey.
Udaipur Record
- Local record: First documented sighting in the Udaipur region in nearly 30 years.
- Landscape link: Ubeshwar forms part of the Aravalli landscape known for dry-forest and scrub habitats supporting reptile diversity.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- Genus: Ahaetulla includes several slender, arboreal vine snakes across South and Southeast Asia.
- Rear-fanged definition: Venom delivered via enlarged posterior teeth rather than front fangs.
- Diurnal: Active during daylight hours.
- Exam relevance: Species description year and endemism are frequently asked in species-distribution and conservation questions.