The massive presence of these snakes had a devastating impact on the local fauna, leading to the extinction of 10 of the 12 native bird species.
The island of Guam, located in and belonging to the United States, is facing a serious environmental crisis caused by the invasion of the brown tree snake. This species, which became predominant after the Second World War, already has an estimated population of around 2 million individuals. Their massive presence had a devastating impact on the local fauna, leading to the extinction of 10 of the 12 native bird species.
These birds played a crucial role in seed dispersal, and their extinction poses a significant threat to more than 70% of the island’s vegetation. The loss of these species not only compromises biodiversity, but also puts the ecological balance of the region at risk, which depends on the interaction between plants and animals.
Originally from Australia and Papua New Guinea, the brown tree snake quickly adapted to the Guam environment, where it has no natural predators. In addition to feeding on birds, this snake also competes with other species for resources, which results in a drastic change in the local ecosystem.
Published by Felipe Dantas
*Report produced with the help of AI
