Study: Global Snake Populations are On a Sharp Decline

Snakes can be found all over the world. You might spot one while on a hike or see one lying across a road. They might sneak into your campground or slither through your own backyard. Some people love these creatures and others are absolutely terrified of them. I’ve come across a fair share of them in my life, both venomous and not, and while some sightings seem to happen more often around here it’s an entirely different story for the rest of the world.

A recent study shows that in the past decade, there has been a severe decline in snake populations across 3 continents. Eight of the species monitored displayed strikingly similar patterns in their decline, regardless of their habitat. Researchers believe this odd coincidence points to a common cause for the snakes’ population crash, such as Climate Change, though there are also a number of other known factors that have played key roles, including: pollution, disease, and habitat loss.

Since snakes are among the top reptile predators, such a notable decline will have serious implications on a lot of wildlife. Previous studies have showed a decline of some species, particularly in the Mediterranean region, but this study is the first to have evidence of decline in the tropics. Places that showed a significant decline in snake populations included: Australia, France, Italy, Nigeria, and the UK. The decline is not gender-specific, though in most cases it has affected the females more rapidly. However, it does seem to have a higher impact on snakes that wait for their prey to come along, rather than those that go hunting.

According to the study:

“Two-thirds of the monitored populations collapsed, and none have shown any sign of recover over nearly a decade since the crash. Unfortunately, there is no reason to expect a reversal of this trend.”

The study is published in Biology Letters; you can read the abstract (free) and full study (fee) here.

By Heidi Marshall