Slithering across every continent except Antarctica, and countries Iceland, Ireland, Greenland, and New Zealand, there are over 3,000 known species of snakes on our planet, with roughly 600 species possessing venomous capabilities.
Only a small fraction, around 200 species or 7%, pose a significant threat to humans.1 But while some snake species are abundant, find out more about the rarest ones roaming the world.
1. Antiguan Racer (Alsophis antiguae)
Once considered the rarest snake in the world, the Antiguan Racer is native to the twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda in the Caribbean. Historically found on the mainland, it was pushed to the brink of extinction due to invasive species like rats and mongooses.
Conservation efforts have led to a resurgence, and now over 1,100 Antiguan Racers thrive on offshore islands like Great Bird Island, Rabbit Island, and Green Island.
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2. Saint Lucia Racer (Erythrolamprus ornatus)
Taking the mantle of the world’s rarest snake from its neighbor, the Antiguan Racer, the Saint Lucia Racer is also found in the Caribbean, specifically on the island of Saint Lucia. This harmless snake suffered a similar fate due to invasive species and was believed to be extinct for several decades.
Rediscovered in 1973, the remaining few individuals cling to survival on the tiny offshore island of Maria Major.
3. Trang Blind Snake (Argyrophis trangensis) & Roxane’s Blind Snake (Argyrophis roxaneae)
These two species of blind snakes, belonging to the same genus, are native to Thailand. The Trang Blind Snake is found in the Trang province, while Roxane’s Blind Snake has only been found in a single location in Bangkok.
Both species are elusive burrowers, making them difficult to study and leading to their classification as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List.
4. Striped Blind Snake (Afrotyphlops lineolatus)
This unique blind snake is native to South Africa and is known for its distinctive striped pattern. It inhabits a variety of habitats, from grasslands to forests, and is often found under rocks or logs.
Although not as critically endangered as the other snakes on this list, its limited range and specific habitat requirements make it a vulnerable species.
5. Orlov’s Viper (Vipera orlovi)
This critically endangered viper is endemic to the Caucasus region of Russia, specifically found in the Krasnodar Krai.
Its range is restricted to a small area of mountain meadows and forests, making it extremely vulnerable to habitat loss and other threats.
6. Aruban Rattlesnake (Crotalus unicolor)
This venomous rattlesnake is found only on the Caribbean island of Aruba. Its habitat is primarily limited to the rocky, arid terrain of the island’s national park, Arikok.
The Aruban Rattlesnake faces challenges due to habitat fragmentation, invasive species, and illegal collection for the pet trade.
7. Albany Adder (Bitis albanica)
This rare adder species is endemic to a small region of the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Its preferred habitat includes coastal dune vegetation and fynbos, a type of shrubland unique to the region.
Due to its limited range and specific habitat requirements, the Albany Adder is listed as Critically Endangered.
8. Short-Nosed Sea Snake (Aipysurus apraefrontalis)
This elusive sea snake was once thought to be extinct but was rediscovered in 2015 off the coast of Western Australia. It is found in shallow waters around coral reefs and is known for its short snout and distinctive banded pattern.
However, its conservation status remains uncertain due to limited data and ongoing threats to its marine habitat.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.