BNT: The Importance Of Bahamian BOA Snakes

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – According to Bahamas National Trust Park Manager, Chantal Curtis, snakes are important because they help to control rodent and pest populations.

She says the snakes are generally shy, not aggressive, and their bites are not poisonous.

Chantal Curtis – Park Manager, Bahamas National Trust
“We want people to know that these animals, they are Bahamian, they are a native species, and secondly, they have such an important role in the environment. You should embrace them, not literally hold them if you are afraid of them, but just accept that this is a part of the natural environment. They do serve a purpose, they help to keep our environment clean.”

Curtis, who was speaking to us on the sidelines of an event at the BNT’s Primeval Forest, says the forest is a natural habitat for Bahamian boas.

Chantal Curtis – Park Manager, Bahamas National Trust
“We have lots of snakes here, and so even though we don’t have individuals on staff, per se, who are involved in snake rescue, we do have a network of individuals who are involved. Our national parks are sites where we release snakes, so this is their habitat. So, the same way when you go to the beach you can see a shark because that’s its home, is the same way if you come to the forest you’re likely to see a snake because this is also its home.”