Scientists have discovered a ’ghost snake’ — a new species of elusive, pale grey reptiles dwelling in Madagascar. The ghost snake, discovered at the Ankarana National Park in Madagascar, is part of a common group of snakes called Madagascarophis, or cat-eyed snakes, named for their vertical pupils, which is often found among snakes that are active in the evening or night. However, the researchers found the ghost snake on pale grey limestone rocks. The researchers found that the ghost snake’s next closest relative is a snake called Madagascarophis fuchsi, which was discovered at a site about 100 kilometres north of Ankarana years ago. Researchers conduct their fieldwork during the rainy season in Madagascar when snakes and their prey, such as frogs, lizards and even other snakes, are most active.

Source: The Hindu September 04, 2016 06:22 UTC