Central Idea
- A recent report by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)-India exposes 172 incidents of red sand boa (Eryx johnii) seizures spanning 2016-2021.
- It is illicitly traded under the notion of its role in black magic practices.
About Red Sand Boa
- The Red Sand Boa is a rare non-poisonous snake with applications in medicine, cosmetics, and even black magic, making it highly valued in the global market.
- Among the general public, it is referred to as the “Two-headed Snake” due to its thick tail with a rounded tip, resembling two heads.
Conservation Status
- Trading and possessing the red sand boa violate the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
- The species is categorized in Schedule IV of the WPA.
- Additionally, the red sand boa is listed in Appendix II of CITES.
- It holds a ‘Near Threatened’ classification by the IUCN, with a diminishing population trend.
Prime moving factor for trade: Social Media
- The study underscores the pivotal role of social media, particularly platforms like YouTube, as conduits for illegal trade.
- YouTube videos act as interfaces for buyers and sellers, occasionally facilitating transactions via WhatsApp.
- In 2021, approximately 200 videos advertising sand boas for sale on YouTube were identified.
