It’s no thicker than a shoelace, fits on a coin, and hasn’t been seen for nearly two decades – but now it’s back.
The Barbados threadsnake, the world’s tiniest snake species, has been rediscovered during a year-long search on the Caribbean island. Measuring just 3-4 inches long, it was found under a rock alongside an earthworm in central Barbados.
“When you search for so long without success, it’s unbelievable when you finally find it,” said Justin Springer of conservation group Re:wild.
Why This Snake Is So Rare
This blind snake is extremely elusive, with only a handful of sightings recorded since 1889. Its rarity is worsened by its slow reproduction rate—females lay just one egg, unlike invasive snakes that can multiply rapidly.
The rediscovered snake was carefully examined at the University of the West Indies before being returned to the wild.
Vanishing Forests, Vanishing Species
With 98% of Barbados’ original forest cleared over 400 years of agriculture, native species like the threadsnake are on the brink.
“This isn’t just about one snake,” said Springer. “It’s about protecting the last remaining forests and the heritage of Barbados.”