Ornate Ground Snake

Endangered Species Profile:

Scientific Name:
Erythrolamprus ornatus.

Common Name:
Ornate Ground Snake; St Lucia Racer.

Found In:
Maria Major Island; (historically Saint Lucia Island). IUCN Redlist Status:
Critically Endangered.

Lifespan:
Unknown.

Quick Facts:
* Non-venomous; constricts prey
* Small- average total length is only 74cm
* Feeds primarily on lizards, entering burrows to feed on individuals as well as eggs
* Until 1973 the species was believed extinct, until rediscovered on Maria Major Island.

Estimated number left in the wild:
18 individuals.

Endangered due to:
* Historic extinction on Saint Lucia Island due to introduction of Small Asian Mongoose
* Extremely limited genetic diversity and number of individuals
* Threat of natural disasters wiping out only known population
* Risk of invasion by non-native species currently inhabiting Saint Lucia Island.

What we can do:
* Support Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust who are working with local and international experts to save this species from extinction
* Be very cautious when visiting Saint Lucia and Maria Major Islands- do not bring non-native species onto the islands and follow all biosecurity laws.