Colwyn Bay's Rat-Eating Snakes Take Over North Wales

Colwyn Bay, a town in North Wales, has seen an influx of Aesculapian rat snakes, the largest wild snakes in the UK, since their introduction in the 1960s. These snakes, believed to be descendants of escapees, have become a part of the local ecosystem, helping to control the rat population without posing a threat to humans or pets. The community has embraced these reptiles, with many residents sharing their encounters on social media. Despite their popularity, the snake population is vulnerable, with estimates suggesting only 60-70 breeding adults remain. The snakes are often victims of road traffic, raising concerns among conservationists about their future. Bangor University researcher Tom Major has been studying the snakes, noting that while the population is stable, it faces significant threats from ongoing development and road deaths. The presence of these snakes has sparked discussions about conservation efforts, including the potential construction of road culverts to protect them. However, such measures are not typically included in transport policies in Britain, and the likelihood of their implementation in Colwyn Bay remains low due to cost and the snakes' status as a reintroduced species. Overall, the situation highlights the delicate balance between urban development and wildlife conservation, as the community navigates the challenges of coexisting with these unique reptiles while ensuring their survival in a changing environment.