02 October,2026 12:01 AM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet Jadhav
(From left) SGNP forest guard Rohit Bhoi, SARRP India volunteer Asif Patrawala, SGNP senior officer Dr Nikhil Bangar, and another SGNP official along with the rescued snake. PIC COURTESY/SARRP INDIA
A red sand boa (Eryx johnii) - a non-venomous snake often mistaken for a two-headed reptile because of its blunt, head-like tail - was rescued from the premises of a five-star hotel in Cuffe Parade in September.
The snake was rescued by Anuj Khanvilkar, a volunteer with wildlife NGO SARRP India, before it could be harmed. The rescue also highlighted the threats faced by the species, which is frequently targeted by wildlife traffickers due to superstitious beliefs that it brings wealth and good fortune and has miraculous medicinal properties.
Asif Patrawala, SARRP India, "We received a call from a five-star hotel informing us about the snake. Our volunteer reached there and identified it as a red sand boa. Immediately after the rescue, officials from the Mumbai Range of the Maharashtra Forest Department were alerted. The snake was placed under my care for observation and treatment. A medical check-up showed that it was weak and dehydrated."
Santosh Shinde, president of SARRP India, said, "Widespread myths falsely allege that the snake brings overnight wealth, supernatural fortune, or possesses medicinal miracles. These superstitions drive a lucrative underground market, making every urban sighting a critical race to prevent poaching."
The reptile was administered supportive care under the guidance of veterinarian Dr Sunetra Wadke. Patrawala looked after the snake until it regained its strength and normal activity. Following its recovery, wildlife veterinary officer of Sanjay Gandhi National Park Dr Nikhil Bangar examined the boa and certified it fit for release.
Considering the vulnerability of the species to poaching and illegal trade, the snake was released deep inside a forest reserve at an undisclosed location, with special permission from the authorities concerned.
Locally known as 'Doon Tondya' in Marathi and 'Double Engine' in smuggling circles, the red sand boa has a distinctive body shape, with its short, blunt tail resembling its head. The snake uses this feature as a defensive mechanism, confusing potential predators and diverting attacks away from its actual head. The shy, non-venomous constrictor is sought after by smugglers because of persistent myths linking it to black magic, prosperity, and medicinal properties. These beliefs have fuelled demand for the species in the illegal wildlife trade.
The red sand boa is protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Its unauthorised capture, possession, trade or other illegal exploitation attracts penal action under the Act, including imprisonment and fines.
