Brown Tree Snakes

Invasive species tend to proliferate because they have a new niche in which they can take advantage of without having any natural predators that would normally help keep a species in check. The arrival of the exotic Brown Tree Snake (Boiga irregularis) from the South Pacific, via cargo has completely altered Guam's natural habitat. Not only have the native species suffered but there have been damages to commerce, electrical systems and human health because of it. Over the past 60 (+) years the Brown Tree Snake has made a devastating impact on native vertebrate species including being responsible for the extinction of many native bird species on the island. While Guam has been the hardest hit by this invasive specie, other nations are worried and fearful of the same consequences that could occur if another accidental arrival occurred.

Native Distribution of the BTS

The Brown Tree Snake's success can be accredited to it's ability to live and survive in many different habitats. In it's native distribution throughout the South Pacific, this includes forested areas as well as grasslands. On islands such as Guam, the snake can be found in trees, caves, shrubs, and human environments. Since the snake is arboreal it is found mostly in the forests of Guam, but also accounts for the many power outages on the island because it slithers through the power lines.

Understanding the Brown Tree Snake's preferred habitat and ability to live in human developed areas can help explain why it has been such an incredible and destructive invasive species.

Island of Guam