Emily Chan
The most significant threat to the Louisiana pine snake is the lack of open forest habitats due to logging and urban development.
Other organizations working to save the species from extinction include the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). The agency has teamed up with private landowners in Louisiana and Texas to expand the snake’s habitat.
Across 5,000 acres of land, longleaf pine trees will be restored to create appropriate living conditions for the snakes.
In addition to establishing trees, conservation practices will include controlled burning and herbicide treatments to reduce the growth of woody shrubs.
Cultivating a habitat with plenty of vegetation will not just benefit the snakes. Other wildlife species will thrive as well, such as the Eastern wild turkey, red-cockaded woodpecker, Northern bobwhite quail, and Henslow’s sparrow.
Hopefully, the snake’s decline can be reversed, and the species can avoid being listed under the Endangered Species Act.
