Prince Edward Islanders are once again urged to be on the lookout for smooth green snakes, the smallest and most rare reptile species on the island. Last year, the forests, fish, and wildlife division of the province requested public assistance in spotting these snakes, resulting in over 20 confirmed sightings. According to Julie-Lynn Zahavich, a forest conservation specialist with the division, this initiative helped confirm the continued presence of these snakes on Prince Edward Island and provided insights into their habitat preferences for further habitat modeling.
Described as “potentially imperiled” in the province, smooth green snakes are typically found in grassy areas where they can seamlessly blend in with their surroundings. Zahavich emphasized the importance of gathering more information on these snakes to determine population trends, such as whether their numbers are increasing or decreasing, which could guide future management strategies.
Distinguished by their bright green coloration, smooth green snakes stand out compared to the island’s other snake species, which are usually more brown or tan in appearance. Islanders are encouraged to report any smooth green snake sightings to the division, providing GPS coordinates, detailed descriptions, photographs, or videos of the sightings, whether the snakes are alive or deceased. The public can reach out to the division’s office or send a message via its Facebook page to contribute to the monitoring efforts.
Zahavich expressed gratitude for the public’s involvement in the previous year’s observations, emphasizing that smooth green snakes are harmless and beneficial to have in gardens as they help control bugs and insects. The division hopes for a similar response this year to further understand and protect these unique reptiles.
