Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reports rare summer sighting of an Eastern indigo snake
Last month, Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation biologists measured and marked an Eastern indigo snake on an island in the Pine Island Sound as part of the SCCF Pine Island Sound Eastern Indigo Snake Project.
Wildlife & Habitat Management Program biologists Peyton Niebanck, Chris Lechowicz and Mike Mills responded to the sighting of the snake. According to the SCCF, sightings of the threatened species during the warm months are uncommon due to the heat, which affects its daily movements and preferred habitats. Few reports are received at this time of year due to its preference for wet and shady areas. Activity times over the summer tend to be very early in the day or late in the early evening.
The SCCF reported that the snake’s breeding season in Southwest Florida begins around Thanksgiving, with the first cold fronts of the season, and diminishes around Valentine’s Day. Peak breeding activity, resulting in increased movements and visibility, generally takes place in the early part of the season. Most of the SCCF’s data from captures are collected from November through March, when the snakes are looking for mates.
Captured Eastern indigo snakes — as part of the research — are measured, weighed, sexed and microchipped, and a sample is taken for a genetic study. The sample doubles as a second method of identification using a standard numbering system, according to the SCCF.
The snakes are considered extirpated on Sanibel since the last verified individual was documented in February 1999. However, there are extant populations on nearby islands facing the same pressures.
If you see and photograph what you believe is an Eastern indigo snake in Lee County, contact SCCF Wildlife & Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz at clechowicz@sccf.org.