DTR records UP’s 1st photographic evidence of twin-spotted wolf snake

Pilibhit: In a major milestone for regional biodiversity, the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve has officially documented the first photographic evidence of the twin-spotted wolf snake (Lycodon jara) in Uttar Pradesh. The discovery, made within the Terai landscape, highlights the hidden reptile diversity of the protected forest.The breakthrough came during a routine biodiversity monitoring survey in Salukarpur forest range. Vipin Kapoor Sainy, a wildlife biologist at the reserve, encountered the specimen along a forest track near the rhino rehabilitation area. Though the snake was dead—with severe head injuries likely caused by a bird of prey—several distinctive physical characteristics remained intact for identification.A field team led by chief veterinary officer Dr Mohammad Talha conducted a detailed morphological examination, capturing high-resolution photos of its upper and underbelly features.

A rigorous review of taxonomic literature and regional checklists later confirmed that no authenticated photographic record of the species had ever been reported from UP.While it is found across eastern Himalayan foothills and parts of Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan and Myanmar, this sighting establishes a vital new distribution point. “The twin-spotted wolf snake is a non-venomous, nocturnal colubrid that acts as a vital mesopredator—a mid-ranking predator in the food web—feeding primarily on geckos, skinks and other small vertebrates to maintain ecological balance,” said Sainy.

As species within the Lycodon genus closely resemble one another, reliably verified photographs are essential for mapping the subcontinent’s lesser-known wildlife. Dudhwa Tiger Reserve’s field director H Raja Mohan and deputy director Jagadeesh R praised the field team, noting that the find underscores the immense value of long-term scientific monitoring in the Terai ecosystem.