12/03/2026
The Sand Boa, locally known in Konkani as Malun, is a non-venomous, thick-bodied snake found in parts of Goa’s scrublands, forest edges, and sandy soils. Recognised by its short, blunt tail that often resembles its head, this slow-moving snake spends much of its time burrowed beneath loose soil. Feeding mainly on small mammals and reptiles, the Sand Boa plays an important role in maintaining ecological balance. Despite myths and illegal wildlife trade pressures, it is protected under Indian wildlife law.