Shield tail snake

Source: The Hindu

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Context

• A new species of the shieldtail snake was sighted in the Meghamalai Munnar hills indicating the Western Ghats’ rich bio-geographical zone and its requirement of protection.

Details

Shield Tail Snake:

• New Species Discovery:
  • The Tail-spot Shieldtail (Uropeltis caudomaculata) was reported from Meghamalai-Munnar hills of the Western Ghats.
• Non-Venomous:
  • Shield tail snakes are not venomous which means that they are harmless to humans.
• Small and Burrowing:
  • These snakes are not really big and prefer to stay most of the time in the underground.
• Breeding Behaviour:
  • They come out mainly during the monsoons to breed.
• Distinctive Markings:
  • This new species has a lateral yellow mark on each side of the base of tail.
  • Formerly considered to be synonymous with the Palni Shieldtail (Uropeltis pulneyensis) of the Kodaikanal area.
• Threats:
  • The species of plants that pose a threat to the Western Ghats’ ecosystem include acacia, lantana, wattle, and pine.

Meghamalai Hill Region:

• Location:
  • Meghamalai or Paccha Kumachi meaning Green Hills is a part of the Western Ghats.

• Geographical Features:
  • Generally, it is famous for the annual fog, tea plantation, and a rich geographical feature.
• Biodiversity:
  • It is worth to mention that there are many species of flora and fauna, including endemic ones, on the island.
• Notable Landmarks:
  • These are the wildlife sanctuaries, Meghamalai and Suruli falls, dams, Maharaja Mettu view point and tea, cardamom, spice garden.
• Ecotourism:
  • It provides great view of Cumbum valley also gives chance to sight-seeing of wild animals like elephants, gaur and spotted deer.

Sources:

The Hindu

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Consider the following statements about the Meghamalai hill region: 1.Meghamalai is part of the Western Ghats. 2.The region is threatened by invasive species such as acacia and pine. 3.Bandipore National Park belongs to this region. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1 and 3 only d) 1, 2 and 3 Answer: a)