A report from biological experts is showing a decline in the number of snakes found in natural habitats around the world. Pollution, overpopulation, and altered weather patterns may be to blame.
The Centre for Ecology & Hydrology published a report including findings from biologists in Italy, France, Nigeria, and Australia showing that snakes are dropping in numbers in multiple habitats.
Dr. Chris Reading from the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology has collected solid data showing that the decline of snakes is not an isolated incident in any one region.
“This is the first documented evidence from anywhere in the world that snake populations may be declining,“ Reading said in a statement. ”Of 17 snake populations (11 species), 11 (8 species) from tropical (Nigeria), Mediterranean (Italy) and temperate (France and the UK) climates declined synchronously and over a period of about four years between 1998 and 2002.”
One of the most direct effects from a decline in the global population of snakes may be an increase in population in other species. Snakes are listed at the top of the food chain for a plethora of different ecological systems. With the snakes dying off, their prey could increase in number.
Data from 17 different snake populations were used to compile the report and more information is being gathered.
“Although we do not know the cause of these observed declines we wish to alert snake ecologists to what appears to be happening and to stimulate further research,” said Reading.
Reading is known for his scholastic achievements as well as his recent appearance on BBC Television. His featured spot on BBC Television was also related to snakes and their living conditions.
The Centre for Ecology & Hydrology published a report including findings from biologists in Italy, France, Nigeria, and Australia showing that snakes are dropping in numbers in multiple habitats.
Dr. Chris Reading from the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology has collected solid data showing that the decline of snakes is not an isolated incident in any one region.
“This is the first documented evidence from anywhere in the world that snake populations may be declining,“ Reading said in a statement. ”Of 17 snake populations (11 species), 11 (8 species) from tropical (Nigeria), Mediterranean (Italy) and temperate (France and the UK) climates declined synchronously and over a period of about four years between 1998 and 2002.”
One of the most direct effects from a decline in the global population of snakes may be an increase in population in other species. Snakes are listed at the top of the food chain for a plethora of different ecological systems. With the snakes dying off, their prey could increase in number.
Data from 17 different snake populations were used to compile the report and more information is being gathered.
“Although we do not know the cause of these observed declines we wish to alert snake ecologists to what appears to be happening and to stimulate further research,” said Reading.
Reading is known for his scholastic achievements as well as his recent appearance on BBC Television. His featured spot on BBC Television was also related to snakes and their living conditions.
