If you come across a smooth greensnake in its natural habitat on Prince Edward Island this summer, the Forests, Fish and Wildlife Division of the province is seeking your assistance. Officials aim to collect information on this elusive reptile, known as the rarest snake species on the island.
The harmless smooth greensnake typically resides in grassy fields, open woodlands, and along the margins of wetlands. However, there is limited knowledge about its population and conservation status on P.E.I., as the species has never been formally studied there, according to Julie-Lynn Zahavich, a forest conservation specialist with the province.
Zahavich emphasized the importance of understanding the whereabouts and habitat preferences of the smooth greensnake to aid in conservation efforts. She highlighted the significance of identifying these key pieces of information to help preserve the species, especially in the face of potential environmental changes like climate change or declining insect populations.
Describing the physical characteristics of the smooth greensnake, Zahavich mentioned that it typically measures between 30 to 50 centimeters in length, featuring a bright green dorsal side and a whitish or yellowish underside. Unlike the garter snake and red-bellied snake found on the island, the smooth greensnake lays eggs rather than giving birth to live offspring.
While the smooth greensnake may exhibit defensive behavior by biting when threatened, Zahavich assured that the bite is non-venomous and poses no serious harm due to the snake’s small size.
To aid in data collection, Islanders are encouraged to photograph any smooth greensnake sightings and note the specific habitat, such as grassy areas, wetlands, or woodlands. Providing GPS coordinates or location details using online maps like Google Maps is also recommended for accurate reporting.
Individuals can submit photos and location information to the Forests, Fish and Wildlife Division through various channels such as Facebook, email, or phone. Historic sightings of the species are also of interest, encouraging those who recall past encounters to share their experiences.
Furthermore, Islanders can utilize the iNaturalist app to document and upload photos and sightings of smooth greensnakes, contributing valuable data for scientific research and conservation purposes. The division plans to expand monitoring efforts in the coming years, collaborating with different organizations to enhance the tracking of smooth greensnake populations across various regions of the province.
