Erzsebet Frey

## Diamond Python {#diamond-python .wp-block-heading}

The Diamond Python (*Morelia spilota spilota*) is a species of
non-venomous snake that is native to eastern Australia.

Here are some key facts about this fascinating reptile:

## Appearance {#appearance .wp-block-heading}

Diamond pythons can grow up to 3 meters (10 feet) in length, although
most individuals are between 1.5 and 2.5 meters (5-8 feet), with adult
males typically reaching lengths of 2.5-3 meters (8-10 feet) and females
reaching lengths of 3-3.5 meters (10-12 feet). There are some reports of
individuals reaching even larger sizes, but these are rare.

They have a distinctive pattern of diamond-shaped markings along their
bodies, which can vary in color from dark brown to black, and is
bordered by lighter-colored scales. The snake's underside is typically
cream or yellow in color. The Diamond Python has a smooth, glossy skin
that is highly prized for its beauty and durability.

Their eyes are relatively small
[compared](https://simplyecologist.com/jaguar-vs-cheetah-vs-leopard/) to
their head size, and they have heat-sensing pits on their lips that help
them locate prey.

## Habitat and Range {#habitat-and-range .wp-block-heading}

Diamond pythons are found in a variety of habitats, including forests,
woodlands, and rocky outcrops, but they prefer areas with access to
water.

They are native to eastern Australia, ranging from Queensland in the
north down to Victoria in the south.

Due to [habitat
loss](https://simplyecologist.com/threats-to-the-biodiversity/) and
fragmentation, Diamond Python populations in some areas have become
isolated and are at risk of decline.

## Behavior and Diet {#behavior-and-diet .wp-block-heading}

Diamond pythons are primarily nocturnal, but they can be active during
the day in cooler weather.

They are non-venomous and rely on constriction to kill their prey, which
can include small mammals,
[birds](https://simplyecologist.com/birds-reproduction-and-development/),
and reptiles.

Juvenile Diamond Pythons often climb trees to hunt birds and are known
for their excellent climbing abilities.

The Diamond Python is a carnivorous species that preys on a variety of
small to medium-sized animals, including rodents, possums, birds, and
reptiles.

It kills its prey by constricting it with its powerful body muscles.
Diamond Pythons are also known to scavenge on carrion.

## Conservation Status {#conservation-status .wp-block-heading}

The Diamond Python is classified as a species of "Least Concern" by the
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), which means that
they are not considered to be at significant risk of extinction.

However, habitat loss and fragmentation, road mortality, and persecution
by humans (who sometimes kill them out of fear) are all potential
threats to their populations.

Like all reptiles, Diamond Pythons are an important part of their
ecosystems and help to control rodent populations

## Reproduction {#reproduction .wp-block-heading}

Diamond Pythons are oviparous, meaning that they lay eggs rather than
giving birth to live young.

Females lay clutches of between 10 and 20 eggs in warm, sheltered
locations such as rock crevices or hollow logs. The eggs hatch after
around two to three months, depending on the temperature.

The eggs take around 60-80 days to hatch, depending on temperature and
humidity.

## Captive Care {#captive-care .wp-block-heading}

Diamond Pythons are popular in the pet trade due to their striking
appearance and docile nature.They require a large enclosure with plenty
of climbing opportunities, as well as a heat source and a basking
area.In captivity, they can live for up to 30 years if provided with
proper care.

## Cultural Significance {#cultural-significance .wp-block-heading}

Diamond Pythons have played an important role in the mythology and
culture of some Indigenous Australian communities.

In some Aboriginal Dreamtime stories, the Diamond Python is seen as a
powerful and protective creature. The Diamond Python has also been used
in traditional Indigenous medicine for its supposed healing properties.

## Hybridization {#hybridization .wp-block-heading}

Diamond Pythons can interbreed with other species of pythons, including
the Carpet Python (*Morelia spilota variegata*).

The resulting offspring, known as "jungle carpets" or "diamond jungles,"
have a unique appearance and are popular in the pet trade. However,
hybridization can be a threat to the genetic integrity of purebred
Diamond Pythons in the wild.

## Taxonomy {#taxonomy .wp-block-heading}

The Diamond Python is classified taxonomically as Morelia spilota
spilota. It is a subspecies of the Carpet Python (*Morelia spilota*) and
belongs to the family Pythonidae.

The Carpet Python family includes several other species that are similar
in appearance and
[behavior](https://simplyecologist.com/what-is-the-behavior-of-red-pandas-in-the-wild/)
to the Diamond Python, including the Jungle Carpet Python (*Morelia
spilota cheynei*) and the Coastal Carpet Python (*Morelia spilota
mcdowelli*).These species have similar diamond-shaped markings and are
also found along the eastern coast of Australia.

The taxonomy of the Carpet Python group is still being studied, and
there is ongoing debate about how many subspecies should be recognized.

## Threats {#threats .wp-block-heading}

While the Diamond Python is not currently considered to be at
significant risk of extinction, its populations face a number of
threats.

Habitat loss and fragmentation due to human development is a major
concern, as it can isolate populations and reduce the amount of suitable
habitat available.

Road mortality is also a significant threat, as Diamond Pythons are
sometimes killed by cars while crossing roads.

[Climate
change](https://simplyecologist.com/how-has-climate-change-impacted-bird-migration/)
is another potential threat, as it can alter the availability of
suitable habitat and affect the timing of important life cycle events
such as egg-laying and hatching.

## Conservation Efforts {#conservation-efforts .wp-block-heading}

A number of conservation measures are in place to help protect Diamond
Pythons and their habitats.In some areas, populations are monitored and
managed to reduce the impact of threats such as road mortality and
habitat loss.

The Diamond Python is also protected by law in some states of Australia,
making it illegal to kill, capture, or trade in the species without a
permit.

Additionally, education and outreach programs are being used to raise
awareness about the importance of Diamond Pythons and their role in
local ecosystems.

## Distribution {#distribution .wp-block-heading}

The Diamond Python is found in a wide range of habitats along the
eastern coast of Australia, including rainforests, eucalyptus forests,
wetlands, and suburban areas.

Within its range, the Diamond Python's distribution is patchy and
fragmented, with isolated populations separated by unsuitable
habitat.The northern and southern ends of its range are considered to be
its most important strongholds.

## Adaptations {#adaptations .wp-block-heading}

The Diamond Python has several adaptations that allow it to thrive in
its habitat. For example:Its diamond-shaped markings help it to blend in
with its surroundings and avoid predators.

Its heat-sensing pits allow it to detect the body heat of prey, even in
complete darkness.Its flexible jaws and expandable throat allow it to
swallow prey whole, even if the prey is larger than the python's own
head.

## Behavior {#behavior .wp-block-heading}

The Diamond Python is generally a solitary animal, although it may
sometimes be found in pairs or small groups during the
[breeding](https://simplyecologist.com/what-is-the-breeding-behavior-of-red-pandas/)
season.

When threatened, it will often flatten its body and raise its head and
neck off the ground in a defensive posture.

Despite its intimidating appearance, the Diamond Python is generally
non-aggressive towards humans and will usually attempt to retreat rather
than attack.

## Conservation Challenges {#conservation-challenges .wp-block-heading}

While the Diamond Python is not currently considered to be at risk of
extinction, its populations face a number of challenges that could
threaten their survival in the future.

One of the biggest challenges is habitat loss and fragmentation due to
human development, which can reduce the amount of suitable habitat
available for the species.

Other threats include climate change, road mortality, and persecution by
humans who fear or dislike snakes.

Ongoing conservation efforts are needed to monitor and manage Diamond
Python populations, protect their habitat, and raise awareness about
their importance and value.

## Threats to Humans {#threats-to-humans .wp-block-heading}

The Diamond Python is generally non-venomous and not considered to be a
threat to humans.

However, like all snakes, it should be treated with respect and caution,
as it can deliver a painful bite if provoked or threatened.

In rare cases, people have been killed by large constrictor snakes such
as the Diamond Python, but such incidents are extremely rare and usually
involve captive animals rather than wild ones.

## Interaction with Humans {#interaction-with-humans .wp-block-heading}

The Diamond Python is generally shy and reclusive, and is not often seen
by humans except in suburban areas where it may occasionally be found in
gardens, parks, or other green spaces.

Despite its impressive size and intimidating appearance, the Diamond
Python is generally not a threat to humans and will usually attempt to
retreat rather than attack.

In fact, many people find the presence of Diamond Pythons to be
beneficial, as they help to control rodent populations and other pests.

However, some people are afraid of snakes and may react negatively to
the presence of Diamond Pythons, which can lead to conflict and even
persecution of the species in some areas.

## Research {#research .wp-block-heading}

The Diamond Python has been the subject of several scientific studies
aimed at understanding its biology, behavior, and conservation needs.

One recent study used genetic techniques to analyze the population
structure and genetic diversity of Diamond Pythons in different regions
of their range.

Other studies have focused on the snake's diet, reproductive biology,
and responses to environmental stressors such as climate change.

## Recap: 10 interesting facts about diamond python {#recap-10-interesting-facts-about-diamond-python .wp-block-heading}

Diamond Pythons are non-venomous, relying instead on their powerful
muscles to constrict and kill their prey.

They are found only in eastern Australia, from Queensland to Victoria.

Diamond Pythons are one of the largest subspecies of Carpet Python, with
adult females reaching lengths of up to 3.5 meters (12 feet).

They have a distinctive diamond-shaped pattern on their backs, which
varies in color from light brown to black.

Diamond Pythons are often found in and around suburban areas, where they
can be attracted to gardens and parks that provide suitable habitat and
prey.

Despite their large size and intimidating appearance, Diamond Pythons
are generally not a threat to humans and will usually attempt to retreat
rather than attack.

They are oviparous, laying clutches of 10-20 eggs in a sheltered
location such as a hollow log or burrow.

Diamond Pythons have played an important role in the mythology and
culture of many Indigenous Australian groups, who have traditionally
used the snake's skin for ceremonial and decorative purposes.

The capture and trade of wild Diamond Pythons is illegal in many areas,
and efforts are being made to promote responsible and sustainable
practices in the captive breeding and trade of the species.

Diamond Pythons are currently listed as a species of "Least Concern" on
the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, but ongoing conservation
efforts are needed to protect their habitat and ensure their long-term
survival.


Diamond Python  The Diamond Python (
<em>
 Morelia spilota spilota
</em>
) is a species of non-venomous snake that is native to eastern Australia.

Diamond Python Facts

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Snakes are fascinating creatures, but they can also be
[dangerous](https://simplyecologist.com/why-bats-are-dangerous/){rel="noreferrer noopener"
target="_blank"}. If you spend time in areas where snakes are common,
it's important to know how to deal with a
[snake](https://simplyecologist.com/diamond-python-facts/){rel="noreferrer noopener"
target="_blank"} bite.
[Snake](https://simplyecologist.com/diamond-python-facts/) bites can be
painful and potentially life-threatening, but with the right knowledge
and quick action, you can minimize the harm caused by the bite.

There are over 3,000
[species](https://simplyecologist.com/how-do-ecologists-study-species/){rel="noreferrer noopener"
target="_blank"} of snakes in the world, and around 600 of them are
venomous. Venomous snakes inject venom into their prey or potential
predators through their fangs, which can cause a range of symptoms in
humans, from mild pain and swelling to more serious complications such
as tissue damage, paralysis, and even death.

In the United States, the most common venomous snakes are rattlesnakes,
copperheads, and water moccasins (also known as cottonmouths). In other
parts of the world, other
[species](https://simplyecologist.com/how-do-ecologists-study-species/)
such as cobras, vipers, and taipans can pose a threat to humans.

The severity of a snake bite depends on a number of factors, including
the type of snake, the amount of venom injected, the location of the
bite, and the health and age of the person who is bitten. Children and
elderly people are generally more susceptible to the effects of snake
venom.

It's important to remember that not all snake bites are venomous. Some
snakes, such as garter snakes, are harmless and won't inject venom when
they bite. However, any snake bite should be taken seriously and treated
as a potential medical emergency.

Treatment for snake bites typically involves antivenom, which is a serum
made from
[animal](https://simplyecologist.com/adaptations-of-animals-in-the-grasslands/)
antibodies that neutralize the venom. Antivenom is usually administered
intravenously and must be given as soon as possible after the bite to be
most effective.

In addition to antivenom, other treatments such as pain medication,
intravenous fluids, and wound care may also be necessary.

*Here are some steps to follow if you or someone you're with is bitten
by a snake:*

- **Stay calm and still**: Staying calm helps to slow down the heart
  rate, which can prevent the venom from spreading quickly throughout
  the body. Additionally, a calm demeanor allows for clearer thinking
  and better decision-making, such as applying appropriate first aid
  measures and seeking medical assistance promptly. Panicking can worsen
  the situation by increasing blood flow and accelerating venom
  absorption, making it essential to maintain composure for a better
  chance of recovery.
- **Remove jewelry and tight clothing**: This will help prevent swelling
  and make it easier to monitor the area. Start by removing any jewelry
  and marking the bite site with a pen for reference. If the bite is on
  a limb, carefully apply a clean, dry compression bandage to cover the
  entire limb, including the bite area. By applying the bandage, you're
  effectively slowing down the
  [movement](https://simplyecologist.com/what-might-influence-the-movement-of-sharks/)
  of lymphatic fluids carrying the venom. This delay can be crucial in
  gaining time to seek medical assistance. Don't try to suck out the
  venom or cut the wound. These are old-fashioned remedies that can
  actually make the situation worse.
- **Seek medical help**: Get to a hospital or other medical facility as
  soon as possible. This is especially important if you experience any
  symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling, or numbness. Don't
  wait for symptoms to appear before seeking treatment.
- **Don't clean the wound:** It's vital not to wash the bite site before
  visiting the hospital after a snake bite because healthcare
  professionals need to test the venom to determine its type accurately.
  Washing the area could potentially remove crucial traces of venom that
  are needed for identification and appropriate treatment. Preserving
  the bite site as it is allows medical experts to conduct thorough
  tests, assess the severity of the envenomation, and administer the
  most effective antivenom.
- **Don't waste time trying to identify a snake:** Identifying the
  specific snake responsible for a bite is not necessary for immediate
  treatment in the Emergency Room (ER). Healthcare professionals in the
  ER typically swab the bite site and conduct tests to identify the type
  of venom present. This information is crucial for administering the
  correct antivenom promptly, as different snake species produce varying
  types and amounts of venom. Immediate medical attention is essential
  to manage venomous snake bites and prevent severe complications, as
  venom effects can rapidly escalate. Delaying treatment for snake
  identification can prolong the time before giving appropriate
  antivenom, potentially worsening symptoms.
- **Do not suck out the venom:** Contrary to popular belief, sucking out
  the venom with your mouth is not recommended, as it can introduce
  bacteria into the wound and cause more harm.
- **Keep the affected area immobilized:** Try to keep the affected limb
  or body part as still as possible. This will slow the spread of venom
  and reduce the risk of complications.
- **Stay hydrated**: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. This will
  help your body flush out the venom more quickly.
- **Monitor your symptoms:** Keep an eye on your symptoms and report any
  changes to medical professionals. Depending on the severity of the
  bite, you may need additional treatments such as antivenom or pain
  medication.

### Identifying a venomous snake {#identifying-a-venomous-snake .wp-block-heading}

As mentioned identifying a venomous snake can be difficult and it is not
necessary, however if you are curious about it, there are some general
characteristics that can help you determine whether a snake is venomous
or not. Here are some key features to look for:

**Head shape:** Venomous snakes typically have a triangular or
diamond-shaped head, while non-venomous snakes have a more rounded head.

**Pupil shape**: Venomous snakes typically have slit-shaped pupils,
while non-venomous snakes have round pupils.

**Fangs**: Venomous snakes have long, hollow fangs that are used to
inject venom into their prey or predators. These fangs are typically
located at the front of the snake's mouth, while non-venomous snakes
have small teeth that are used to grip and swallow their prey.

**Body shape:** Venomous snakes tend to have a thicker body and a
shorter tail than non-venomous snakes. They may also have a more
brightly colored or patterned body, although this is not always the
case.

[**Behavior**](https://simplyecologist.com/what-is-the-behavior-of-red-pandas-in-the-wild/){rel="noreferrer noopener"
target="_blank"}**:** Venomous snakes may exhibit defensive
[behavior](https://simplyecologist.com/what-is-the-behavior-of-red-pandas-in-the-wild/),
such as hissing, striking, or rattling their
[tails](https://simplyecologist.com/do-bears-have-tails-and-how-long-are-they/),
when they feel threatened. Non-venomous snakes are usually more docile
and may try to escape or hide when confronted.

It's important to note that not all venomous snakes have all of these
characteristics, and some non-venomous snakes may have similar features.
If you live in an area where venomous snakes are common, it's a good
idea to familiarize yourself with the different species that are present
in your region.

This can help you avoid potential encounters with venomous snakes and
respond appropriately if you or someone you know is bitten. In addition
to visual identification, you can also use other clues to determine
whether a snake is venomous.

For example, venomous snakes may leave distinctive bite marks, and their
venom may cause specific symptoms such as pain, swelling, and
discoloration at the site of the bite.

### Preventing snake bites {#preventing-snake-bites .wp-block-heading}

Of course, the best way to deal with a snake bite is to avoid getting
bitten in the first place.

***Here are some tips for preventing snake bites:***

- **Wear appropriate clothing:** When hiking or spending time outdoors,
  wear long pants and boots that cover your ankles. This will provide
  some protection against snake bites.
- **Stay alert:** Keep an eye out for snakes and be especially careful
  when stepping over logs or rocks.
- **Avoid handling snakes:** Even if you think a snake is harmless,
  don't try to pick it up or handle it.
- **Keep your campsite clean:** Snakes are attracted to
  [food](https://simplyecologist.com/what-do-jaguars-like-to-eat/){rel="noreferrer noopener"
  target="_blank"} and trash, so keep your campsite clean and free of
  debris.
- **Use caution around water:** Snakes are often found near water
  sources, so be extra cautious when swimming or fishing.
- **Educate yourself:** Learn about the types of snakes that are present
  in your area, their habits and behavior, and how to identify them.
  This can help you avoid potential encounters and respond appropriately
  if you are bitten.

Dealing with a snake bite can be a scary experience, but by staying
calm, seeking medical attention quickly, and following the steps
outlined above, you can minimize the harm caused by the bite. Remember
that prevention is key, so take steps to avoid getting bitten in the
first place. With a little knowledge and caution, you can safely enjoy
the great outdoors without
[fear](https://simplyecologist.com/what-animal-has-no-fear/){rel="noreferrer noopener"
target="_blank"} of snake bites.

------------------------------------------------------------------------


Snakes are fascinating creatures, but they can also be dangerous. If you spend time in areas where snakes are common, it’s important to know how to deal with a snake bite. Snake bites can be painful and potentially life-threatening, but with the right knowledge and quick action, you can minimize the harm caused by the bite. There are over 3,000 species of snakes in the world, and around 600 of them are venomous.

How to deal with a snake bite?

Leatherback turtles range from 70°15'N to 27°S in the Atlantic, Pacific
and Indian oceans. The main nesting beaches are in Mexico, Costa Rica
Irian Jaya, French Guiana, Suriname and Gabon. In Canada, turtles have
been observed in the waters off Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland
and Prince Edward Island.

Virtually nothing is known about hatchling and juvenile
[habitat](https://simplyecologist.com/what-is-the-natural-habitat-of-a-red-panda/)
requirements, however, since they are never seen in temperate waters, It
can be assumed that leatherbacks acquire a cold tolerance as they
mature, possibly due to their increased body size.

Adult leatherback turtles are highly migratory and spend most of their
lives on the high seas. They are seen regularly along the continental
shelf off the Canadian coast, presumably due to the high concentration
of prey. Their use of temperate water habitat seems to depend on the
abundance of prey.

The largest colony in the Caribbean region is located in Yalimapo near
the border with Suriname. As is typical of long-term databases at
well-studied nesting beaches, the French Guiana database demonstrates
strong fluctuations in the number of nests laid each year, ranging
(since 1978) from more than 50,000 nests to fewer than 10,000.

The number of nests laid at Yalimapo has been steadily decreasing since
1992. Although the nature and extent of the decline are difficult to
interpret (due to the highly dynamic nature of beaches and the
consequent
[evolution](https://simplyecologist.com/history-of-the-wolves/) of
nesting patterns), the trend is clear. By averaging the
[data](https://simplyecologist.com/how-do-scientists-study-mammals/)
over the years (which reduces the effects of annual fluctuations), we
average a number of nests laid per year between 1993 and 1998 was
18,100.

There were less than 100 leatherback turtle nests laid in Suriname in
1967, but the number steadily increased to a peak of 12,401 nests in
1985 and has fluctuated widely since then. A minimum of 4,000 nests were
laid in Suriname in 1999, of which about 50% were lost to poaching.

More moderate-scale operations are reported in Guyana, Venezuela, and
Colombia. Sea turtles have been used extensively on nesting beaches in
Guyana for many generations. The most important nesting area is the
North-West District, especially Almond Beach. Pritchard (1986)estimated
that 80% of females were killed each year as they attempted to nest.

In 1989 an intensive tagging program began in collaboration with local
communities, and rates of mortality have since declined. The number of
nests laid at Almond Beachfluctuates among years and ranged from 90 to
247 between 1989-1994; The Acandí region (Gulf of Urabá),
specificallyPlayona Beach, is the most important nesting site(for
leatherbacks) in Colombia.

During 11 weeks of monitoring 3 km of nesting beach at Playona in 1998,
71 females were tagged and 162 nests were confirmed. In 1999, 180
females were tagged and 193 nests were confirmed). Current threats to
the colony are considered serious and include direct harvest, incidental
catch by fisheries, pollution, upland deforestation, and coastal
[development](https://simplyecologist.com/birds-reproduction-and-development/).

Local experts define leather nesting in Panama as being in decline;
Polls are needed to confirm the speculation. Between Costa Rica and
Escudo de Veraguas (Bocas del Toro Province), some 35-100 gravid females
are killed each year and
[egg](https://simplyecologist.com/birds-reproduction-and-development/)
poaching is estimated at 85%.

Most leatherbacks are killed near the Changuinola River, where the meat
is later found for sale in Changuinola and the banana plantations for
US\$0.25 per lb. Costa Rica has seen dramatic declines in some areas due
largely to egg poaching, which still approaches 100% outside of
protected areas.

An estimated 70% of all leatherback nesting in Caribbean Costa Rica
occurs within the protected areas of Gandoca-Manzanillo wildlife refuge,
Pacuare Nature Reserve, and Tortuguero National Park, where the combined
number of
[breeding](https://simplyecologist.com/what-is-the-breeding-behavior-of-red-pandas/)
females per year is 5,00 to 1,000, making it the third-largest known
breeding group in the wider Caribbean region.

The population of the Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge is increasing,
with the number of nests per year varying from 200 to more than 1,100
between 1990 and 1999. In Honduras, there is a small colony 2575 nests
per year at Plapaya Beach which has been protected by MOPAWI and the
Garifuna community since 1995.

Breeding is described as rare in Mexico, where possibly fewer than 20
nests are laid each year on the entire Caribbean coast and the Gulf of
Mexico. With the exception of Trinidad (and possibly the Dominican
Republic), nesting in the insular Caribbean is predictable but does not
occur anywhere in large numbers, i.e. more than 1,000 nests (or about
150 females) per year.

There is considerable anecdotal evidence that nesting has dramatically
declined throughout the eastern Caribbean. In the British Virgin
Islands, for example, six or more females nested per night on beaches on
the northeast coast of Tortola in the 1920s. Turtles were harvested
primarily for the oil, which was (and is) used medicinally. In 1988,
only one nest was recorded in Tortola; in 1989 there were none.

There were 28 crawls (successful and unsuccessful nesting events,
combined) on Tortola in 1997, 10 in 1998, and 39 in 1999, suggesting
local nesting of 2-6 turtles per year. Egg theft and the killing of
egg-bearing females have combined to shrink the once-thriving colonies
of St. Kitts and Nevis, St.Lucia, Tobago, and elsewhere on the Caribbean
island.

On islands where nesting appears to have been historically rare or
occasional (eg., Anguilla, Antigua, Barbados, Jamaica, Netherlands
Antilles), it is impossible to estimate current trends. The news is
better in some areas where protective measures have been strong.

Nesting at the Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge, USVI, where
leatherbacks have been protected for nearly three decades, is showing a
clear upward trend. An average of 26 females nested (with an average of
133 nests laid) each year between 1982-1986 and an average of 70 females
brooded with an average of 423 broods each year between 1995 and 1999,
almost tripling in two decades ( Similar trends are seen at Culebra
National Wildlife Refuge (PlayaResaca and Playa Brava), Puerto Rico,
where an average of 19 nested females (with an average of 142 nests
laid) each year between 1984 and 1986 (east coast) and Grande Rivière
(north coast), were declared protected areas in 1990 and 1997
respectively.

Systematic tagging began at Matura in 1999 and 862 females were tagged,
but beach coverage was Incomplete and only more than 1,000 females
probably nested almost 10 km from the beach that year. A similar number
of females (800-1,000 per year) are believed to nest at Grande Riviere.

The status of the nesting colony in Trinidad is unknown. Community-based
beach patrols have reduced the number of females killed each year to
near zero (down from an estimated 30-50% per year on the east coast and
near 100% on the north coast in the 1960s and 1970s), but high levels of
incidental catch offshore have the potential to decimate the colony.


Leatherback turtles range from 70°15’N to 27°S in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans. The main nesting beaches are in Mexico, Costa Rica Irian Jaya, French Guiana, Suriname and Gabon. In Canada, turtles have been observed in the waters off Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Prince Edward Island.

Postagens de Rogue Scholar

Diamond Python Facts

How to deal with a snake bite?

Where do leatherback turtles live?