Rare Laudankia Vine Snake Documented in Udaipur

The Laudankia Vine Snake, scientifically named Ahaetulla laudankia, was photographed in the Ubeshwar wildlife area of Udaipur on 12 July 2026. The record was made by wildlife photographer Rohit Dwivedi with guidance from Sharad Agrawal and Deepal Kalra.

Species Profile

Ahaetulla laudankia was scientifically described in 2019 and is endemic to India. The species belongs to the vine snake group and is known for a slender, elongated body adapted to arboreal life.

Identification Features

The Laudankia Vine Snake has a chestnut-brown body with fine black speckles and pale white patches on the lower part of the head. It usually measures between 80 cm and 1.5 metres in length. The species is diurnal, which means it is active during the day.

Habitat and Behaviour

The snake inhabits dry deciduous forests, scrublands, and hill slopes. It is arboreal, which means it spends much of its time on trees and shrubs. The species is mildly venomous and rear-fanged, and its venom is mainly used for subduing small prey.

Udaipur Record and Regional Context

This is the first recorded sighting of the species in the Udaipur region in nearly 30 years. The last known record from Udaipur was made by Dr. Satish Sharma, a retired Rajasthan Forest Service officer and wildlife expert. The Ubeshwar area is part of the Aravalli landscape and is recognised for high biodiversity.

Important Facts for Exams

• Ahaetulla laudankia was scientifically described in 2019.
• The species is endemic to India and belongs to the vine snake group.
• Rear-fanged snakes deliver venom through enlarged teeth at the back of the mouth.
• Diurnal species are active during daylight hours.

Conservation Context

Ubeshwar in Udaipur lies within the Aravalli region, which contains dry forests, scrub habitats, and hill slopes. Such habitats support reptile diversity, including arboreal snake species.