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What is Lycodon irwini?

Nov. 18, 2025

Researchers recently confirmed the discovery of Lycodon irwini, a glossy black wolf snake, on Great Nicobar Island.

About Lycodon irwini:

  • It is a new species of snake.
  • It was discovered on the remote Great Nicobar Island at the southern tip of the Nicobar Islands.
  • The snake, which is a member of the Lycodon subcinctus group, was named in honour of the late Australian conservationist and television personality, Stephen Robert Irwin.
  • It is a striking glossy-black wolf snake that had remained unidentified for years because it closely resembles another widespread species.
  • The new research finally confirms that the Great Nicobar population represents a distinct species currently known only from the island.
  • One of the most notable features of Lycodon irwini is its uniform glossy black colour, unlike close relatives that typically have white bands or patches.
  • The snake is slender, nocturnal, and can grow close to 1.2 metres in length.
  • The researchers also documented a higher number of belly and tail scales compared to similar species.

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