The Urartian rat snake
New species of snake discovered in Kurdistan
PENJWEN — A new species of snake, identified as the Urartian Rat Snake (Elaphe urartica), has been officially documented in the Kurdistan Region for the first time. Discovered in the village of Laradar, Penjwen, located in the easternmost part of the region, this snake poses no venomous threat to human life.
Published in the Austrian journal Herpetozoa, the research, co-authored by Daniel Jablonski and Soran H. Ahmed, provides insights into the characteristics of the Urartian Rat Snake.
Typically measuring less than 120 centimeters in length, this diurnal species prefers dry habitats and demonstrates adept climbing abilities, often found perched on trees. Its diet comprises small rodents like mice and voles, birds and their eggs, and occasionally lizards.
According to Soran Ahmed, a Kurdish researcher, the Urartian Rat Snake was initially recorded in eastern Anatolia, the Caucasian region, and the northern Middle East in 2019.
Its presence in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq had been speculated but not scientifically confirmed until now, highlighting the region’s diverse wildlife.
The study also underscores the primary threats to the survival of this species, including habitat loss due to deforestation for agricultural expansion, wildfires, excessive pesticide use, and direct killing by humans who mistakenly perceive it as venomous.
Ahmed urges the public not to harm these snakes upon sighting, emphasizing their non-venomous nature and low tendency to bite. Recognizing their harmless contribution to the ecosystem, he encourages coexistence with this newly discovered species, emphasizing its beneficial role in maintaining biodiversity.