The recent seizure of a red sand boa snake (Eryx johnii) worth approximately ₹1.25 crore in Madhya Pradesh brings the illegal wild life trade under sharp focus. The apprehended individuals aimed to sell this valuable non-poisonous serpent, which is highly sought-after both nationally and internationally for its use in medicine, cosmetics and even black magic. Despite being endemic to most regions of India, its absence in the North-eastern belts post-North-Bengal and Indian islands makes it a rare find. This species commonly goes by the moniker “Two-headed Snake” in layman terms due to its distinctive thick tail with a rounded end. The sale and possession of the red sand boa snake constitute a crime as per the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
The Red Sand Boa: An Overview
The red sand boa, bearing the scientific name Eryx johnii, is a reptile native to the Indian subcontinent. Its popularity stems from its unique physical characteristics and purported uses.
Its distinct appearance, characterized by a hefty rounded tail that mirrors its head, has earned it the nickname of ‘two-headed snake.’ This misleading name often amplifies the perceived value and mystique of the species, making it a prime target for illegal wildlife trading.
Conversely, from a biological perspective, this feature serves as a defense mechanism, tricking predators into attacking the less vulnerable tail instead of the head.
The red sand boa holds significant economic value as it is used in the production of various medicines and cosmetic goods. Additionally, the snake finds utility in black magic practices, further escalating its demand in certain markets.
Legal Framework Surrounding the Red Sand Boa
Indian law is stringent regarding the protection of the red sand boa. As per the Wildlife Protection Act 1972, both trading and possessing this species is considered unlawful. The Act lists the red sand boa under its Schedule 4, highlighting the snake’s protected status.
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) recognizes the threat posed by unchecked trade on this species. As such, it also includes the red sand boa in its Appendix II, denoting that it is not necessarily threatened with extinction at present, but may become so unless its trade is closely controlled.
Distribution and Threats
| Area | Presence of Red Sand Boa |
|---|---|
| Indian Subcontinent (General) | Yes |
| North-Eastern India (Post-North-Bengal) | No |
| Indian Islands | No |
Conservation Efforts
Despite the legal protections in place, the red sand boa remains a lucrative entity for wildlife smugglers. Its unique appearance and associated uses, coupled with a lack of awareness about the species’ protected status, contribute to its illegal trade.
Efforts are being made to conserve this unique species and clamp down on the illegal wildlife trade. Public awareness campaigns, strict law enforcement, and scientific research into the species’ behavioural patterns and habitat needs are considered crucial elements in these conservation strategies.
