![]() ![]() They are most common in the eastern half of the state. These snakes are not found in all of Texas. The only subspecies found in Texas is the Western cottonmouth ( A. These pit vipers can deliver fatal or even venomous bites to humans. The cottonmouth or water moccasin ( Agkistrodon piscivorus) is the only semi-aquatic member of the viper family. This means you may see a terrestrial snake taking a swim. Snakes can also swim and will do so if they want to cross to the other side of a body of water. Even land species need to drink and may hunt animals coming to get a drink. You may also spot some more unusual snakes in the water or nearby. Remember to keep a note of where you are since many species of snake are only found in parts of the state. Once you are away, you can use this handy list to help you identify the snake you are looking at. ![]() Snakes are not aggressive and will not try to pursue a human in most cases. Back away from the snake so it knows that it can escape. If you run across a snake in the water, the first step you take should be to freeze. The snake is definitely more frightened of you than you are of it. Even the venomous snakes just want to get away from you. However, not all snakes that you encounter in or near water are dangerous to humans. The most famous water snake in Texas is known to be venomous. They hope to one day assist with eastern indigo snake reintroductions.Running across an unknown snake in the water can be a frightening experience. In partnership with the Orianne Society, Zoo staff participate in eastern indigo snake field surveys and conservation work in Georgia. Research at the Smithsonian's National Zoo ![]() If conservationists work to recover the population of gopher tortoises, which are currently considered vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, there would likely be a similarly healthy population of eastern indigo snakes in that area.Ĭonservation methods currently in place to protect eastern indigo snakes include prescribed burning to maintain ideal habitat, the continuation of a breeding colony in human care, gaining cooperation from local landowners and increased public education and outreach. Eastern indigo snakes are one of more than 200 species that inhabit tortoise burrows. One potential measure of the health and recovery of this species is the presence of gopher tortoises. Additionally, eastern indigo snakes in institutions accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums are managed under a Species Survival Plan. In South Carolina and Mississippi, they are protected as an endangered species. Eastern indigo snakes are protected at the state level in Alabama and have full protection as a threatened species in Florida and Georgia. ![]() In the event of excessive human development, fragmented snake populations may be able to sustain in protected areas of wild land, but it is unlikely that these populations would remain viable.Ĭonservation efforts have been enacted at the federal and state levels. Large areas of natural, unaltered habitat are rapidly disappearing.Īdditional threats include over-collection for the pet trade, habitat fragmentation and mortalities as an indirect consequence of the gassing of gopher tortoise burrows by rattlesnake collectors. Habitat loss and deforestation are this species' primary threats. Fish and Wildlife Service lists the eastern indigo snake as threatened due to a dramatic decline in population. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |