Florida wildlife officials urge public to report rare rainbow snake sightings

Florida wildlife officials are looking for residents and visitors to report any view of the rare rainbow snake (Farangia Erytrogramma) A striking semi -aquatic species that faces the population falls. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Protection Commission (FWC) emphasized that public participation is important to monitor the distribution of species, monitor health and support long -term protection attempts.

Different view and habitat

Rainbow snakes can be easily defined because of their vivid colors and unique signs. Adults are typically measured by 3 to 4 feet length, emphasized by three red strips along their backs with black or violet blue scale. His lips and jaws are marked with violet stains, making them significant compared to other snake species. These reptiles are usually found in or near fresh water environments, including rivers, springs and bitter swamps. Historically, a sub -species in Southern Florida lived in Fisheating Creek in Glades County, 150 miles south of Lake County. However, no landscape has been reported there since 1952.
Rainbow snakes are primarily fed with American snakefish, a hunting species that has a decrease in the population in Florida waters. This special diet contributed to the reduction of rainbow snakes in the state with the ongoing loss of habitat. In addition to concern, snake fungal disease affecting the rainbow snake species in other parts of the country asks questions about the long -term survival expectations of species.

Importance of Public Open Reporting

Kevin Enge, a research scientist of FWC’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, emphasized the critical value of community participation: “We need help to better understand where Floridians and visitors are still in the state.” The FWC encourages everyone who encounters a rainbow snake, ideally to send an online report with photos to help the appropriate identity. Even short observations are important, provides information to researchers to inform the protection strategies, monitor population trends and evaluate the health trends of general species.

FAQ:

Quarter. What is the rainbow snake?
A1. A type of half -intelligence (Farangia Erytrogramma) It is known for its three red strips and yellow and fenugreek -withdrawal of the chin with a black or violet blue body.

S2. Where are the rainbow snakes in Florida?
A2. Lake County and historically live in Glades County, Fisheating Creek population and fresh water rivers, springs and bitter swamps.