Last year set a record as the warmest to date. In 2024, global temperatures were measured at 1.6 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial level. This increase in temperature has serious consequences for our planet, particularly for wildlife—including snakes.
Snakes are reptiles, which means their body temperature fluctuates with the environment. Timothy Bonebrake, a professor at the University of Hong Kong, explains that this temperature shift can occur daily or seasonally. Unlike humans, who maintain a constant body temperature of about 37 degrees Celsius, snakes depend on their surroundings to control their body heat. Bonebrake notes that this ability impacts their behavior, hunting skills, and capacity to evade predators.
As climate change progresses, the relationship between snakes and people is changing, according to the World Health Organization. Rising temperatures and more frequent extreme weather events will alter snake movements and habits. This could make them thrive or dwindle in certain areas. With farming practices evolving and people facing pressure to relocate, interactions between humans and snakes are likely to rise. Unfortunately, this may lead to increased snakebite incidents, especially in areas where people are less familiar with snakes.
In Hong Kong, there are about 53 species of snakes. Conservation efforts have played a crucial role in sustaining this diversity. Bonebrake points out that around 40% of Hong Kong’s land is set aside as country parks, fostering various habitats and supporting biodiversity.
However, as more people move to urban areas, the natural habitats for snakes are shrinking. Research in Hong Kong has shown that urbanization often reduces human-snake conflicts, except for specific species like the bamboo pit viper and greater green snake. Bonebrake emphasizes the need to protect snake habitats. He believes we should take pride in the snake diversity in Hong Kong and work towards safeguarding their environments.
With the undeniable effects of climate change looming, it is essential to maintain awareness of these issues. Habitats must be preserved to ensure the survival of both snakes and the delicate ecosystems they inhabit.
