How To Help the Frontenac Axis Gray Ratsnakes : Local Initiatives

            In a previous blog post we have already outlined various ways you can help Ontario snakes in general. Beyond this, it is important to recognize what snake species, particularly, which at risk species are located near you and to act accordingly. While you should be trying your best to carry out all of the snake-friendly behaviours, to have the maximum conservation benefit you need to be tailoring your conservation efforts toward local species. For example, if you live near a subpopulation of the aquatic queensnake you should be trying your best to not disturb water environments. This could be as simple as being careful when walking along rocky shorelines as to avoid crushing queensnakes that like to hide in such areas.

            If you live in Kingston there is a threatened species near you that needs your help; the Frontenac Axis gray ratsnake population. There are local initiatives to help this important species that you can participate in, including the successful nesting box program carried out by the Leeds Grenville Stewardship Council. For this initiative gray ratsnake nesting boxes, which provide suitable nesting habitat for snakes, are constructed and monitored with the aim of improving reproductive success and counteract current population declines, but also to help with observation and study of the species (Frontenac Arch Biosphere, 2015).  

Fully constructed gray ratsnake nesting boxes, a local conservation initiative in the Kingston area. Photo from http://www.lgstewardship.ca/nesting-box-plans.html. 

For more information on the nesting box program pleas see: http://www.frontenacarchbiosphere.ca/stewardship-corner/ratsnake-nesting-box-program and http://www.lgstewardship.ca/nesting-box-plans.html

We encourage Kingston residents to get involved with this conservation effort, or to help out with the conservation of the gray ratsnake population in some other way. Beyond that, we challenge you to actively participate in one snake conservation effort. Your simple actions, and the information you share with friends, can have a great impact on the conservation status of at risk species. This is especially true when considering local species and populations.

References

Frontenac Arch Biosphere. (2015). Rat Snake Nesting Box Program. http://www.frontenacarchbiosphere.ca/stewardship-corner/ratsnake-nesting-box-program.