In a startling exposure, a report titled ‘Illegal Trade of Red Sand Boa in India 2016-2021’ propagated by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)-India has revealed rampant trafficking of red sand boa. This disclosure has underscored the urgency to address the issue concerning the illicit trade and emphasized the pressing need for conservation initiatives.
Report Findings: Understand the Extent of the Illicit Trade
The report meticulously documented 172 incidents involving red sand boa seizures between 2016 and 2021, unraveling the expansive scope of this illegal activity. The illicit trade spans across 18 Indian states, one Union Territory, and 87 districts. The most affected regions include Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, with Maharashtra leading the list, accounting for 59 recorded cases in areas like Pune, Thane, and Mumbai Suburban. Uttar Pradesh, with 33 incidents, is also a significant contributor, especially in districts near Nepal’s border such as Bahraich and Lakhimpur-Kheri. Alarmingly, social media platforms, particularly YouTube, have been aiding this illicit trade, with 200 videos promoting sales recorded in 2021 alone. These findings accentuate the immediate need for conservation measures to arrest the declining red sand boa population and safeguard India’s biodiversity.
About Red Sand Boa: A Non-Venomous Reptile Species
The Red Sand Boa (Eryx johnii), colloquially referred to as the Indian Sand Boa, is a non-venomous snake species primarily distinguished by its reddish-brown color and thick-set appearance. The species, which grows to an average length of 75 cm, has a tail nearly as thick as its body, giving it the semblance of being “double-headed”. Of all sand boa types across the globe, the red sand boa is the largest. This nocturnal creature spends most of its time underground.
Distribution and Conservation Status of Red Sand Boa
The distribution range of the red sand boa encompasses all of India except the northeastern states and North-Bengal, and it is not found on Indian islands. Conservation-wise, it is categorized as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List and is recorded under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The species also enjoys protection in India under Schedule IV of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972.
Threats to Red Sand Boa: Human Expansion and Illicit Trade
The burgeoning expansion of human settlements and activities presents a substantial threat to this species. A surge in demand for red sand boas in the pet trade, its use in black magic, and poaching due to perceived medicinal benefits further fuel their trafficking.
About Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)-India
The WCS-India, characterized as a Section 25 non-profit organization, embodies a strong commitment to conservation. Fully compliant with Indian regulations, the organization demonstrates unwavering dedication towards preserving India’s natural environment and its abundant biodiversity.
Prelims Q, Previous Year’s Questions (PYQs)
In the Civil Services Preliminary Examination of 2010, a question based on King Cobra’s nesting behavior was asked. The question was: “King Cobra is the only snake that makes its own nest. Why does it make its nest?” The correct answer was: “It is an oviparous snake and lays its eggs in the nest and guards the nest until they are hatched.” King Cobras, despite being venomous snakes found in South and Southeast Asia, are unique as they build nests to lay eggs and protect them.