Have you seen this rare rainbow serpent? Florida wants to know

As their name suggests, rainbow snakes display iridescent scales that turn a brilliant blue in the sun. But these beautiful creatures have not been seen since 2020, so Florida officials recruit the public to help confirm that they are alive.

In a release Posted on August 18, Florida’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announced that it was looking for FARANCIA Eryrogmawhose populations have been threatened by loss of habitat and fungal snake disease in recent years. The rainbow snakes have not come and do not constitute threats to humans or pets, leading a semi-aquatic life and feeding on American eels.

“We need the help of the Floridians and visitors to better understand where rainbow snakes still occur in the state,” said Kevin Enge, an FWC scientist, in the press release. “Each observation report gives us precious data on their current distribution and helps us to assess the health of species in Florida.”

Historical documents record the presence of these snakes in certain parts of the south of Florida, but it was back in 1952. Since then, these already rare species have largely disappeared until a hiker fortuitous meeting With a rainbow snake in 2020-the first observation in 50 years.

Their large size and their distinctive coloring distinguish them from other species, but understanding their specific characteristics is essential to identify them. According to the Florida MuseumThe adult rainbow snakes are large and with a thick body, measuring between 27 and 48 inches (70 and 122 centimeters). The rainbow snakes have distinct marks: three thin red bands downstairs and sides, with yellow or pink spots on the lower side of his back, his chin and his throat. They also have a tapered tail which ends with a “sharp and excited scale”.

FWC asks anyone who spots a rainbow serpent to report his observations through this Online form. Photo evidence is particularly encouraged, they said, adding that “the public can play an important role in the conservation of this single species”.