Lakhimpur Kheri, June 23 -- Dudhwa Tiger Reserve (DTR) has achieved a significant milestone in wildlife conservation with the first authenticated photographic documentation of the elusive twin-spotted wolf snake (Lycodon jara) in Uttar Pradesh. According to DTR deputy director Jagdish R., this is the first confirmed photographic record of the species not only in Dudhwa but anywhere in the state. The discovery was made on Saturday during a routine biodiversity survey near Rhino Rehabilitation Area-1 (RRA-1) gate in Salukapur by wildlife biologist and Dudhwa Outreach In-charge Vipin Kapoor Sainy. He spotted the snake with its head crushed, apparently by a predator, but its unusual body markings prompted further examination. Sainy said DTR experts Dr Mohammad Talha and Sandeep Kumar conducted a detailed assessment and captured high-resolution photographs to verify the snake's distinct morphological features. A subsequent review of available scientific literature revealed that no authenticated photographic record of the twin-spotted wolf snake had previously been reported from Uttar Pradesh. A non-venomous and nocturnal species, the snake plays an important ecological role by regulating populations of skinks and geckos. Field director Dr H. Raja Mohan described the finding as further evidence of Dudhwa's rich biodiversity, saying systematic field surveys continue to yield important scientific records. Deputy director Jagdish R. termed the documentation a "noteworthy scientific achievement" that underscores the need for continued research on lesser-known wildlife species. The discovery follows a series of notable reptile records from Dudhwa, including the first documentation of the long-snouted vine snake, Condanarus sand snake and rainbow water snake in the reserve last year. HTC...