Authors: |
D. Craig Rudolph, Shirley J. Burgdorf, Richard R. Schaefer, Richard N. Conner, Ricky W. Maxey |
Year: |
2006 |
Type: |
Scientific Journal |
Station: |
Southern Research Station |
Source: |
Southeastern Naturalist. 5(3):463–472 |
Abstract
Extensive trapping surveys across the historical range of Pituophis ruthveni (Louisiana Pine Snake) suggest that extant populations are extremely small and limited to remnant patches of suitable habitat in a highly fragmented landscape. Evaluation of habitat at all known historical localities of P. ruthveni documents the widespread degradation of the fire-maintained pine ecosystem throughout the historical range of the species. The primary factors leading to degradation of P. ruthveni habitat are intensive pine silviculture and alteration of the pre-European fire regime. Habitat restoration on public lands is feasible and could potentially restore populations of this critically rare species.
Citation
Rudolph, D. Craig; Burgdorf, Shirley J.; Schaefer, Richard R.; Conner, Richard N.; Maxey, Ricky W. 2006. Status of Pituophis ruthveni (Louisiana pine snake). Southeastern Naturalist. 5(3):463–472.