A rare and fascinating non-venomous snake, native exclusively to the island of Antigua and a few surrounding islets in the Caribbean. Notably, this species is one of the world’s rarest snakes, having once been declared nearly extinct in the 1990s. Through intense and dedicated conservation efforts, the Antiguan racer has made a remarkable comeback, becoming a symbol of hope for conservationists worldwide.

Physically, the Antiguan racer is relatively small compared to other snakes, typically growing only to about a meter in length. It has a slender body and a distinctive pale grey or brown color with darker patches that provide camouflage against the rocky shores and vegetation of its habitat. This coloration helps it blend into the background to avoid predators and to sneak up on prey.

The diet of the Antiguan racer primarily consists of small lizards and occasionally frogs. As a non-venomous snake, it subdues its prey through constriction, wrapping its body around the victim and suffocating it. This method allows the racer to tackle prey that is almost as large as itself, demonstrating considerable strength and technique for its size.

One of the most remarkable characteristics of the Antiguan racer is its gentle nature towards humans. Unlike many wild snakes, which might display aggression when threatened, the Antiguan racer is relatively docile and tends to avoid confrontation by fleeing or hiding. This temperament, however, made it vulnerable to introduced predators such as rats and mongooses, which significantly contributed to its initial decline.

Conservation efforts for the Antiguan racer have been particularly successful. Initiatives have included eradicating invasive species like rats from its limited habitat, protecting nesting sites, and educating the local public and visitors about the importance of this snake to the ecosystem. These efforts have led to a significant increase in the population, from just a few dozen individuals in the 1990s to several hundred today.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Antigua & Barbuda

>1,100

Official estimate

CR

2015