Batocera rufomaculata (Fig borer) - Sikkim Beetle

Batocera rufomaculata, commonly known as Fig borer, tropical fig borer, mango stem borer, a long-horn beetle originating from Asia, was described by Charles De Geer in 1775. It infests various trees including Ficus carica, Carica papaya, Mangifera indica, and Shorea robusta, posing a threat to fruit tree cultivation, particularly mangoes, by causing yield loss and tree death.

Human activities have spread globally, affecting regions like Israel, Madagascar, and the Virgin Islands. Control efforts face challenges due to its broad host range and susceptibility to parasitic infection by Avetianella batocerae. Effective management strategies focus on monitoring, quarantine, and biological controls to mitigate its impact on agriculture and forestry.

Oligodon albocinctus (ight Barred Kukri Snake) - Sikkim Snake

Oligodon albocinctus, the light-barred kukri snake, is a colubrid snake endemic to Asia. First described by Theodore Cantor in 1839, it is recognized for its white crossbands on a darker body, providing effective camouflage. This nocturnal and secretive snake inhabits forested and hilly regions across South Asia, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar.

It feeds on eggs, small rodents, and other small vertebrates, using its kukri knife-shaped teeth for cutting open eggs. The species is oviparous, laying eggs from which the young hatch.