Pa. takes timber rattlesnake off species watch list
For the first time in 38 years, the state's Timber rattlesnake will no longer be listed as a candidate for protection as a threatened or endangered species.
For the first time in 38 years, the state's timber rattlesnake will no longer be listed as a candidate for protection as a threatened or endangered species.
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission voted unanimously Tuesday to "delist" the venomous reptile, from its "Candidate Species" listing.
"The delisting of the timber Rattlesnake demonstrates how protective measures and regulations can be successfully implemented to conserve a species and improve a population," James Arway, the commission's executive director, said in a statement.
A candidate species listing acknowledges there is sufficient information on a species' biological status and habitat threats to propose it as an endangered or threatened species under the Endangered Species Act but provides no protection.
The delisting was opposed by some environmental groups including the Delaware Riverkeeper Network, which called the action premature, and needed further study into the impact of the gas drilling industry on the snake's habitat.
"Expert herpetologists suggest even stronger protections and management measures be put in place for the timber rattlesnake, especially with the build out of gas infrastructure that is proposed for the state," Delaware Riverkeeper Maya van Rossum said in a statement.
In addition, the commission voted to add the hornyhead chub, a minnow, to the endangered species list; removed the Mountain Brook Lamprey from the threatened species list; and removed the Ohio Lamprey Bowfin from the candidate species List.
In other business the board elected Commissioner Glade Squires, from Downingtown, as the new president.
215-854-4908
@MariSchaefer