Indigenous to Welsh locals, massive 5ft-long ‘cannibal snakes’ have been making their way into homes across the country. These unique reptiles, known as Aesculapian snakes, have found a niche in the Colwyn Bay area of North Wales, with a population exceeding 200 individuals. Researchers have uncovered evidence of cannibalism within this established snake community, shedding light on their intriguing behaviour.
The Aesculapian snakes, originally from the Welsh Mountain Zoo, made their escape around fifty years ago and have since thrived in the North Wales region. These European serpents, which are among the largest snake species, can grow up to 6ft (1.8m) in length. However, due to limited food sources, the local population tends to measure around 5ft (1.5m). These non-venomous snakes primarily feed on birds, eggs, and small mammals by using constriction as their hunting technique.
Dr. Tom Major, a Bangor University PhD student, has been conducting an extensive study on this unique snake population. One of the fascinating findings of the research is the snakes’ adaptive survival techniques. Residents in Colwyn Bay have reported finding these snakes in compost heaps and even inside their homes seeking warmth and shelter during hibernation periods. Despite initial shock from some locals, Dr. Major assures that these cold-blooded creatures pose no threat to humans, as their secretive nature keeps them mostly unnoticed by residents.
In a remarkable discovery during the study, nine snakes were implanted with miniature radio trackers. This tracking process unveiled a surprising incident of cannibalism within the snake community. A male snake named M137 was found to have consumed a female snake, F159, raising questions about the dynamics of these creatures. While cannibalism is relatively rare, the researchers believe that the male snake’s act was likely driven by the need for energy intake, given the scarcity of food resources.
The Aesculapian snakes in Colwyn Bay have garnered a certain fondness from local residents, despite encountering challenges such as traffic threats and slow population growth. Dr. Major, now working on a similar study in London with escaped snakes in the English capital, aims to continue unraveling the mysteries surrounding these fascinating reptiles. Assuring the public, Dr. Major emphasises that there is no cause for alarm regarding these snakes and encourages a greater understanding of their coexistence with humans.
As researchers delve deeper into the lives of these ‘cannibal snakes’ inhabiting Welsh homes, the intricate dynamics and behaviours of these unique creatures continue to intrigue both scientists and the local community. With ongoing studies and efforts to protect and understand these reptiles, residents in Colwyn Bay and beyond have the opportunity to witness the fascinating interplay between nature and urban environments.