Discovery of New Species: Pregnant 'Bronze' Creature Found Snoozing on Bushes in Vietnam

Scientists in Vietnam discovered a new species of snake, named Dendrelaphis binhi or Binh's bronzeback snake, while searching for tree-dwelling reptiles. The bronze-colored snake, ranging in size from 2.5 to just over 3 feet, was found snoozing on bushes in the coastal areas of Binh Thuan and Ninh Thuan provinces. The new species was identified based on its scale pattern, genitalia shape, and genetic divergence from other known species. The snake was named in honor of a Vietnamese herpetologist who passed away in 2023. Further studies are needed to understand the complete distribution range of Binh's bronzeback snake.