Massive “Double Engine” snake rescued from poachers in Darjeeling’s forest

Team Udayavani, Feb 22, 2023, 5:25 PM IST

Four smugglers were nabbed smuggling a massive Red Sand Boa in Darjeeling of West Bengal.

According to ANI, the accused identified as Arindam Sarkar, Pasang Lama Sherpa, Abavar Miya, and Jagadish Roy were trying to deliver the non-venomous snake to Nepal.

Red Sand Boa, which is scientifically called Eryx johnii, is commonly found in Pakistan, Iran, and India.

ANI also posted images of the magnificent reptile in a Twitter post. The caption read: “WB | Team of Belacoba forest range seized Red Sand Boa (Eryx johnii) from Darjeeling forest area arrested 4 people in connection with illegal trading. Accused identified as Arindam Sarkar, Pasang Lama Sherpa, Abavar Miya & Jagadish Ch Roy. It was scheduled for delivery to Nepal.”

WB | Team of Belacoba forest range seized Red Sand Boa (Eryx johnii) from Darjeeling forest area arrested 4 people in connection with illegal trading. Accused identified as Arindam Sarkar, Pasang Lama Sherpa, Abavar Miya & Jagadish Ch Roy. It was scheduled for delivery to Nepal. pic.twitter.com/tW3wrVmVvJ

— ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2023

Red Sand Boa snake is also referred to as the “Double Engine” because its head and tail look identical. Local names for it include Indian sand boa, John’s sand boa, red sand boa, and brown sand boa.