New species of snake found in Peru named after Harrison Ford


By AGENCY

Photo: Handout

Scientists working in Peru have named a new species of snake after Harrison Ford (pic) in honour of the Indiana Jones actor's support for conservation work.

The 40 cm (16 inch) reptile was first discovered in May 2022 in the jungle mountains of Otishi National Park, San Marcos National University said Wednesday.

But it was not until now that researchers concluded it was indeed a previously unknown species.

This creature is a yellowish-brown color, with black spots, a black belly and copper eyes.

It has been given the scientific name Tachymenoides harrisonfordi.

The snake was first found by a team led by Edgar Lehr, a US-German biologist.

It is now named after Ford because he is active in environmental issues, Lehr told AFP from the state of Illinois.

"I found out that Harrison Ford agreed to have his name used via a consultation that Conservation International made", he added, referring to an NGO.

He said the snake was discovered in an area that is only accessible by helicopter.

"It took us seven days to find it," said Lehr.

The snake is harmless to adult humans but it is good at hunting toads and lizards, he added.

Lehr led a team of researchers from San Marcos National University, Florida International University and Illinois Wesleyan University.

Salamandra, the German Journal of Herpetology, published on Aug 15 a study on the discovery of the snake. – AFP Relaxnews

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
   

Next In Entertainment

'Gladiator 3' already in works, say director and star
Japanese porn stars charging HK$150,000 for sex arrested in Hong Kong operation
Kenneth Ma and Moses Chan secure "No.1 brother" status in TVB anniversary group photo
'This episode is totally heartbreaking' says top promoter Kharisma Music; initiates legal proceedings against singer Aishah Retno for loss of income and slander
Former Miss Hong Kong Louisa Mak announces pregnancy months after honeymoon
Ready for another 'APT'? Blackpink's Rose to drop new song on Nov 22
Bee Gees drummers Dennis Bryon and Colin Petersen die within days of each other
Man claims trial to fraud over Andy Lau, Jay Chou concert tickets
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ ex-bodyguard details animal sacrifice during Shyne shooting trial
Korean star Song Joong-ki welcomes second child in Rome

Others Also Read