Brown tree snake

Brown Tree Snake

The Brown Tree Snake (Boiga irregularis) is a species of colubrid snake native to the eastern and northern coasts of Australia, Papua New Guinea, and a large number of islands in northwestern Melanesia. It is an invasive species in Guam, where it has caused significant ecological damage.

Description

The Brown Tree Snake is a slender, arboreal snake that can grow up to 2 meters in length. It has a distinctive head that is slightly wider than its neck, and its eyes are large with vertical pupils. The coloration of the snake varies from a light brown to a darker brown, with irregular banding or blotches along its body.

Habitat and Distribution

The Brown Tree Snake is primarily found in forested areas, but it is highly adaptable and can also be found in grasslands, mangroves, and urban areas. It is native to Australia, Papua New Guinea, and several islands in Melanesia. However, it has become an invasive species in Guam, where it was accidentally introduced in the mid-20th century.

Behavior

The Brown Tree Snake is nocturnal and arboreal, spending much of its time in trees. It is an opportunistic feeder, preying on birds, lizards, bats, and small mammals. The snake is mildly venomous, with rear fangs that deliver venom to subdue its prey. However, it is not considered dangerous to humans.

Impact as an Invasive Species

In Guam, the Brown Tree Snake has had a devastating impact on the local ecosystem. It has caused the decline or extinction of several native bird species, as well as other small vertebrates. The snake's presence has also led to frequent power outages, as it climbs power lines and causes short circuits.

Efforts to control the population of Brown Tree Snakes in Guam include trapping, the use of snake-detection dogs, and the aerial distribution of toxic bait. Despite these efforts, the snake remains a significant ecological threat.

Conservation and Management

Conservation efforts focus on preventing the spread of the Brown Tree Snake to other islands and regions. Strict quarantine measures are in place to prevent the accidental transport of snakes in cargo and on aircraft. Research is ongoing to develop more effective control methods and to understand the ecological impact of the snake in invaded areas.

Also see

• Invasive species
• Guam
• Colubridae
• Ecological impact of invasive species