Problem Snake Management : Habu and the Brown Treesnake

Intensive research on and management of poisonous snakes has centred on Japan, home of the habu, and Guam, where brown treesnakes have killed off many native species.

This text draws on that research to present comprehensive guidelines for snake management, with information on biology and behaviour.

The authors address a wide range of problems associated with snakes, from bites to wildlife endangerment.

They cover basic biology and ecology; management techniques such as detection, capture and habitat modification; use of predators, parasites and toxicants; and methods of isolating snakes with electrical, chemical or habitat barriers.

All management recommendations are based on current ecological, behavioural and sensory information.

The importance of natural history in differentiating management programmes for snakes is emphasized throughout.