Last spring the elusive sharp-tailed snake was seen—and documented!—on Lasqueti. As this is its northern-most siting, other than a population in Pemberton, it has caused quite a stir in the scientific scene. Read on to learn more!
Lasqueti Island has recently been identified as the northern-most locale (on the Gulf islands) of the endangered Sharp-tailed Snake (Contia tenuis). There is a more northerly population in Pemberton on the mainland that was discovered in 2011. This small (20-30 cm long), reddish-brown snake has been critically endangered in BC since 1999 largely due to habitat loss and fragmentation. Sharp-tailed Snakes live in open forests and woodlands in coastal Douglas-fir and Garry Oak woodland habitats. They tend to thrive in subterranean habitats where the ground is rocky with a southern exposure to support their egg-laying. Unlike the common garter snake, the Sharp-tailed Snake is rarely seen basking in the sun; it generally prefers to stay under cover and is typically more active during cool, moist conditions when the slugs they prey upon are active. These snakes tend to be more active at night.
The Lasqueti Island Sharp-tailed Snake was found in early May 2023 near Richardson Bay where there is an abundance of exposed south-facing rocky habitat with Douglas-fir and Arbutus forest. These snakes are seasonally active in early spring and again in the fall; they, likely spend the majority of the dry summer and cold winter months sheltered in underground burrows. Individuals appear to restrict their movements to relatively small and distinct areas. This lack of movement means stewardship and conservation is very important to the survival and recovery of Sharp-tailed Snake populations. It is difficult to find them due to their secretive habits. Utilizing snake-friendly gardening practices (including piling rocks in sunny locations, avoiding pesticides, and planting native plants) and maintaining natural areas with south-facing rocky slopes, rotting woody debris, and rock piles would benefit many native species. The Sharp-tailed Snake’s secretive nature makes it challenging to document its habits. Studies are ongoing to determine more about its behaviour and how to best support its recovery.
- Charlene Lloyd, BSC in Environmental Science