REPORT ON SNAKE MIGRATION (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Env and Eco)

Context: A recent report revealed that climate change could prompt significant geographical shifts in venomous snake populations, potentially leading to mass migrations of various species.

Climate change-related distributional range shifts of venomous snakes Report

• The study focused on 209 medically important venomous snake species recognized by the WHO.
• Ecosystem Role of Snakes: Apart from medical applications, snakes contribute to ecosystems by preying on mammals, birds, and other snakes.
• Favorable Climatic Conditions: Researchers modeled snake migration patterns in relation to climate change projections up to 2070.
• Warning of Loss in Specific Regions: The report warns of a decline in venomous snake populations in the Amazon and South Africa.
• Population Increase: Conversely, regions like the United States, northern Europe, and Southeast Asia are projected to experience an increase in snake populations.
• Snake-Enriched Agricultural Areas: Agricultural regions in India, Bangladesh, Thailand, Uganda, Kenya, Cameroon, Lithuania, Liberia, and Ukraine have observed an increase in snake populations.

Legally Protected Indian Reptiles

• Venomous snake species such as King Cobra, Monocled Cobra, Spectacled Cobra and Russell’s Viper are protected by law under Schedule II of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
• Non-venomous snake species such as the Indian Rock Python is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. This implies that the Python is granted the same level of protection as the Asian Elephant in the country.
• Red Sand Boa: Legally protected - Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule IV, CITES: Appendix II
• Rat Snake and water snakes such as Checkered keelback and Olive keelback are classified under Schedule II (Part II).