A newly discovered snake species, named Dendrelaphis anthracina or coal black tree snake, has been identified on Sudest Island in Papua New Guinea, reaching lengths of up to 4 feet, 8 inches.

This significant finding was made by scientist Fred Kraus, whose research was published in the journal Zootaxa on April 4, 2025, as part of his exploration for new reptile species across various islands.

Kraus described the coal black tree snake as having a distinctive jet-black coloration, black eyes, and a white chin, and he observed it preying on a goshawk, a hawk species with a wingspan of up to 46 inches.

In addition to the coal black tree snake, Kraus identified three other new snake species during his research: the atra tree snake on Misima Island, the black net tree snake on Rossel Island, and Rosen's tree snake on Woodlark Island.

Rosen's tree snake, the smallest of the new species at 3 feet, 5 inches, is named in honor of Kraus's late friend and conservationist, Clark Rosen.

The atra tree snake, measuring 4 feet, 1 inch, is characterized by its matte black coloration that develops in adulthood and is exclusive to Misima Island.

Meanwhile, the black net tree snake, which grows to 4 feet, 11 inches, is notable for its striking orange eyes and net-like pattern on dark scales, found only on Rossel Island.

All of these newly discovered snake species inhabit ecologically diverse environments, including rainforests and areas altered by human activity such as gardens and mining sites.

While the coal black tree snake has only been confirmed on Sudest Island, it is possible that it also exists on nearby smaller islands.