Seasonal activity and road mortality of the snakes of the Pa-Hay-Okee wetlands of Everglades National Park

Authors

Frank S. Bernardino, Florida International University

Document Type

Thesis

Degree

Master of Science (MS)

Major/Program

Biology

First Advisor's Name

Dr. George H. Dalrymple

First Advisor's Committee Title

Committee Chair

Second Advisor's Name

Dr. William B. Robertson, Jr.

Third Advisor's Name

Dr. J. Eric Juterbock

Keywords

Snakes, Florida, Everglades National Park

Date of Defense

7-23-1990

Abstract

The current study describes the composition and activity of the snake community of the Pa-hay-okee wetlands of Everglades National Park. The study was conducted from January 1987 to January 1989. Sixteen species were observed, with Thamnophis sauritus, Thamnophis sirtalis, Nerodia fasciata pictiventris, and Agkistrodon piscivorus representing 90.2% of the total sample. The seasonal distribution and activity of the snakes were closely related to fluctuations in the water table. Most activity occurred in the winter months as snakes migrated west following the drying water edge of Shark River Slough. Seventy percent of all snakes observed during this study were either injured or dead on the road. Over 50% of annual mortality occurred during migration. The impact that road mortality is having on the local snake community cannot be ignored. Management options are provided to minimize loss. A comparison is made to the snake community of the Long Pine Key Region of Everglades National Park.

Identifier

FI14050480

Recommended Citation

Bernardino, Frank S., "Seasonal activity and road mortality of the snakes of the Pa-Hay-Okee wetlands of Everglades National Park" (1990). FIU Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 1603.
https://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/etd/1603