Snakes that lie motionless, waiting for prey to come within striking distance, have suffered far more losses than species that are active hunters.
Snake populations have plummeted on three continents over the past 15 years, causing concerns that loss of the reptiles could allow rodents to thrive, as well as other ecological disruptions.
A study published in the British Royal Society journal Biology Letters says 11 of 17 snake populations in France, Britain, Italy, Nigeria and Australia dropped off sharply during a four-year period, starting in the late 1990s.
England’s Center for Ecology and Hydrology says the reason for the decline is unclear, but the potential consequences could spell trouble for agriculture.
“I don’t think people realize how important snakes are,” said lead scientist Chris Reading.
He warns that they are the top predator in many ecosystems, and their absence would allow an explosion of pests such as rats that feed on rice and wheat.
Reading says climate change, loss of habitat and pollution may be behind the sharp snake decline.
Photo: File