Sikkim, Dec 16: A new snake species, Boiga stoliczkae, has been officially recognized in Sikkim following its discovery by naturalist Sonam Pintso Sherpa in the Rimbi region. Previously considered a subspecies of the Tawny Cat Snake (Boiga ochracea), Boiga stoliczkae has now been reclassified as a separate species after a comprehensive study by Kohler et al. (2023).

Historically, Boiga ochracea was thought to consist of two subspecies: Boiga ochracea stoliczkae and Boiga ochracea ochracea. However, recent research has confirmed that Boiga stoliczkae is a distinct species. The snake has been found across Sikkim, Darjeeling, and Bhutan, with all orange-colored specimens from these areas now classified under Boiga stoliczkae.

Though mildly venomous, Boiga stoliczkae poses little threat to humans. This discovery enriches the understanding of the biodiversity in the region.