The elusive Barbados threadsnake, one of the world’s rarest reptiles, has been rediscovered in the forests of central Barbados.
This small, blind snake, which measures only 10 centimeters in length, was found during an ecological survey in March this year. The discovery brings hope for the survival of the species, which had not been recorded in nearly two decades.
The Barbados threadsnake (Tetracheilostoma carlae) is the smallest known snake species on Earth. It had only been spotted a handful of times since its initial discovery in 1889. Experts had feared the species might have been lost forever due to habitat loss and the destruction of its natural environment.
The rediscovery occurred during a biodiversity assessment led by Connor Blades from the Barbados Ministry of Environment and Justin Springer from the conservation group Re:wild. The team found the snake beneath a rock lodged in tree roots, highlighting the species’ cryptic nature.
“Barbados threadsnakes are blind, so they’re very hard to spot,” said Blades. “They’re also quite rare, and very few people have seen one.”
The snake was carefully examined at the University of the West Indies to confirm its identity. Experts ensured it was not the invasive Brahminy blind snake, a species that resembles the Barbados threadsnake.
The identification was confirmed under a microscope before the snake was returned to its natural habitat.
The Barbados threadsnake is described as being “no thicker than a spaghetti strand” and features distinctive orange stripes along its back. Its small size and limited reproductive capabilities make it especially vulnerable. The snake lays only one egg per clutch, a reproductive limitation that heightens its risk of extinction.
The rediscovery is a reminder of the fragility of Barbados’ ecosystems. The island has faced severe deforestation, and less than two percent of its original forest cover remains. This discovery underscores the importance of conserving the island’s remaining wilderness.
Conservationists hope the rediscovery of the Barbados threadsnake will raise awareness about the importance of protecting the island’s native flora and fauna. The find may spark renewed interest in preserving what little remains of Barbados’ natural habitats.
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