India's 1st albino Checkered Keelback snake found in Assam

India Nov 19, 2025

Researchers at the Assam State Zoo just spotted something super rare—a young albino Checkered Keelback snake in Assam.
With its pale, almost completely pigment-free skin and red eyes, this little guy is India's first recorded albino of its kind.

Why this find matters

Herpetologists double-checked the snake's features to confirm it was truly an albino, and their discovery is now published in an international journal.
Albino snakes are extremely rare because a genetic mutation stops their bodies from making melanin—the pigment that gives color to skin and scales—making them stand out (and more vulnerable) in the wild.

Released safely back into nature

After some quick study and photos, the team released the snake into a protected forest to help keep it safe from predators.