Climate change has turned into possibly the greatest threat to humanity. It has been triggering natural disasters of unprecedented intensities and elevating average global temperatures to nearly unbearable levels. But there is another looming consequence.
Climate breakdown is likely to spark a large-scale migration of venomous snake species into unique and unprepared countries, according to the findings published in the journal Lancet Planetary Health. The study modelled the geographical distribution of 209 species.
Climate-related range shifts of venomous snakes
Researchers forecast that China, Nepal, Myanmar, Niger and Namibia are likely to see large numbers of venomous snake species migrating from neighbouring countries under a heating climate. Such a migration can make humans more vulnerable to snake bites.
Most of the venomous snakes species examined are believed to experience range contractions due to loss of tropical and subtropical ecosystems. The variable bush viper endemic to Africa and the hognosed pit viper of the Americas are projected to lose over 70% of their range.
But habitats for some species such as the west African gaboon viper is likely to increase by up to 250%, according to the study. In a similar fashion, the ranges of the European asp and the horned viper is also forecast to more than double by 2070.
Effects on public health and biodiversity
Study authors noted that “as more land is converted for agriculture and livestock rearing, it destroys and fragments the natural habitats that snakes rely on.” But some generalist snake species can adapt to agricultural landscapes and even thrive in those areas.
Millions of people globally are bitten by venomous snakes each year, causing tens of thousands of deaths, amputations and permanent disabilities. It is important to realise that the aforementioned possible migration of snakes species should be treated as a wake-up call.
