Skip to main content

Effect of the climate change on the US habitat of Burmese python (2000 vs 2100)

The Burmese python (Python bivittatus) is one of the largest snake species in the world, native to Southeast Asia. Known for its impressive size and attractive patterns, it can reach lengths of up to 23 feet (7 meters). Burmese pythons are non-venomous constrictors and are popular in the exotic pet trade. In the United States, particularly in Florida, they have become invasive due to escaped or released pets, causing ecological concerns and impacting native wildlife.

Climate change is having a notable effect on the habitat of the Burmese python in the United States. Native to Southeast Asia, Burmese pythons were introduced to the Florida Everglades through the exotic pet trade. In recent years, they have become an invasive species with a rapidly expanding population, and their presence is exacerbated by the changing climate.

Below result from modeling the spatial distribution of the Burmese python in 2000 vs 2100 created by the USGS.

Effect of climate change on US habitat of burmese python (2000 vs 2100)
Warmer temperatures in Florida due to climate change create a more favorable environment for these pythons. They are ectothermic, meaning their body temperature is regulated by external factors, and warmer weather allows them to thrive. Milder winters have expanded their range northward, and the longer warm seasons enable them to breed more frequently.

Climate change can also impact prey availability and distribution. Rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns can influence the abundance and behavior of the python's prey, such as small mammals and birds. This, in turn, affects the python's survival and reproductive success.

Additionally, climate change-related extreme weather events, like hurricanes and storms, can create opportunities for pythons to spread to new areas as they escape from damaged enclosures or get transported by floodwaters.

The combination of these factors, along with the Burmese python's prolific breeding capabilities, poses a considerable ecological threat to Florida's native wildlife. Invasive species like the Burmese python can disrupt ecosystems, threaten endangered species, and contribute to declines in biodiversity.

Efforts are underway to manage the invasive python population in Florida, including controlled hunts and research initiatives. However, the intersection of climate change and invasive species like the Burmese python underscores the need for comprehensive strategies that address both the direct impacts of invasive species and the broader ecological shifts driven by climate change.

To learn more about snakes consider the following books:
Labels:

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.


Popular posts from this blog

Find cities with similar climate

This map has been created using The Global environmental stratification. The Global environmental stratification (GEnS), based on statistical clustering of bioclimate data (WorldClim). GEnS, consists of 125 strata, which have been aggregated into 18 global environmental zones (labeled A to R) based on the dendrogram. Interactive map >> Via www.vividmaps.com Related posts: -  Find cities with similar climate 2050 -  How global warming will impact 6000+ cities around the world?
Read more

Moose population in North America

The moose ( Alces alces ) is the largest member of the deer family, characterized by its massive size, long legs, and distinctive broad, palmate antlers found in males. They have a dark brown or black coat and a humped shoulder. Moose are primarily found in the boreal and mixed deciduous forests of North America, Europe, and Asia. They are solitary animals, often found near bodies of water, and are herbivores that feed on leaves, bark, twigs, and aquatic vegetation. Despite their size, moose are strong swimmers and can run up to 35 miles per hour. The moose population in North America is shrinking swiftly. This decrease has been correlated to the opening of roadways and landscapes into this animal's north range.   In North America, the moose range includes almost all of Canada and Alaska, the northern part of New England and New York, the upper Rocky Mountains, northern Minnesota and Wisconsin, Michigan's Upper Peninsula, and Isle Royale.    In 2014-2015, the North Americ...
Read more

Map of Fox Species Distribution

Foxes are small to medium-sized members of the Canidae family, which also includes wolves, dogs, and other related animals. There are about 37 species of foxes distributed around the world, and they inhabit a wide range of environments, from forests and grasslands to deserts and urban areas. Below is the map of fox species distribution  created by Reddit user isaacSW Here are some of the most well-known fox species and their distribution: Red Fox ( Vulpes vulpes ): The red fox is one of the most widely distributed fox species and is found in North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa. They are adaptable and can live in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas. Arctic Fox ( Vulpes lagopus ): The Arctic fox is found in the Arctic regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. They have adaptations that help them survive in cold climates, such as a thick coat that changes color with the seasons. Gray Fox ( Urocyon cinereoargenteus ): The gray ...
1 comment
Read more