SREL Reprint #2435

Apparent decline of the southern hog-nosed snake, (Heterodon simus)

Tracey D. Tuberville1, J. Russell Bodie2, John B. Jensen3, Linda LaClaire4, and J. Whitfield Gibbons1

1Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29801
2Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211-7400
3Georgia Department of Natural Resources, 116 Rum Creek Drive, Forsyth, GA 31029
4U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 6578 Dogwood View Parkway, Jackson, MS 39213

Abstract:  During the past few decades, many reptile and amphibian species of the southeastern United States' Coastal Plain have received significant conservation attention because of dwindling populations or range shrinkage. Although the southern hog-nosed snake is included among those species for which concern is expressed, well-documented trend information has been lacking. We reviewed and summarized all of the available literature relating to this species, contacted herpetologists in each state within its known range, obtained Element Occurrence Records from the Natural Heritage Programs of each state, and acquired information from major museum collections. Although the available evidence suggests that the species has disappeared or declined in a substantial portion of its range, some southern hog-nosed populations appear to be stable at this time. Habitat destruction and degradation, road mortality, and the introduction and spread of red imported fire ants (Solenopsis invicta) are possible factors leading to the species' apparent decline in much of its range, although inconsistencies in survey effort and the southern hog-nosed snake's secretive nature may contribute to an underestimation of their population size and vigor.  Research is needed to better understand the ecological requirements of this species and how purported threats may affect its viability.  Efforts to survey historical localities and monitor known populations are encouraged.

Keywords:  Conservation; Heterodon simus; decline; reptile; southern hog-nosed snake

SREL Reprint #2435

Tuberville, T. D., J. R. Bodie, J. B. Jensen, L. LaClaire, and J. W. Gibbons. 2000. Apparent decline of the southern hog-nosed snake, (Heterodon simus). Journal of the Elisha Mitchell Scientific Society 116:19-40.

This information was provided by the University of Georgia's Savannah River Ecology Laboratory (srel.uga.edu).