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The wildlife authorities in Florida have issued an urgent call to residents and visitors to help locate the elusive rainbow snake, a species so rare that it has not been seen in over five years and may be at risk of disappearing from the state.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) explained that this non-venomous reptile, characterized by its iridescent black body with red stripes and yellowish scales on its chin, relies almost exclusively on American eels for sustenance. The drastic decline of this species, along with habitat loss and fungal diseases, has driven the rainbow snake to the brink of extinction.
We need the help of Floridians and visitors to better understand where rainbow snakes can still be found in the state. Each sighting report provides us with valuable information about their current distribution and helps us assess the health of the species in Florida,” stated Kevin Enge, a researcher at the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute of the FWC, as reported by CBS News Miami.
A nearly ghostly species
For decades, the rainbow snake was considered practically invisible. The last confirmed sighting occurred in February 2020, when a hiker photographed a specimen over a meter long in the Ocala National Forest, north of Orlando. Prior to that, no records had been documented in that area since 1969.
Even a subspecies that inhabited Fisheating Creek in Glades County has been absent from records since 1952, reinforcing the sense of being in the presence of a nearly mythical creature.
The call from the authorities comes just days after the Python Challenge 2025, a contest that mobilized hundreds of hunters to control the invasive snakes in the Everglades.
Jonathan Veach, spokesperson for the FWC, explained to that there may have been sightings in recent years, but "they were not reported or we never became aware of them."
Therefore, they emphasize the importance of anyone who believes they have seen a rainbow snake to report it immediately through the official FWC portal, and, if possible, to accompany the report with photographs.
Every image can make a difference in conservation efforts, authorities stated.
How to identify it
The rainbow snake (Farancia erytrogramma) is harmless to humans. It measures between 90 and 120 cm, has a violet-blue sheen with red stripes running along its back, and yellow scales with purple spots on its chin.
Its unique appearance makes it a gem of the fauna of the southeastern United States, but it is also a symbol of how fragile the natural balance can be.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Search for the Rainbow Snake in Florida
Why is it important to find the rainbow snake in Florida?
The rainbow snake is a rare and non-venomous species that may be at risk of extinction in Florida. Its discovery contributes to a better understanding of its distribution and health, and is crucial for conservation efforts. The decline of its primary food source, American eels, and habitat loss are factors threatening its survival.
How can you identify a rainbow snake?
The rainbow snake is characterized by its iridescent black body with red stripes and yellowish scales on its chin. It measures between 90 and 120 cm and has a bluish-violet sheen, making it very distinctive and easy to recognize if encountered in its natural habitat in Florida.
What should residents do if they see a rainbow snake?
Residents should immediately report any sightings of the rainbow snake through the official portal of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). It is important to accompany the report with photographs if possible, as each image can be vital for the conservation efforts of this species.
What is the relationship between the Python Challenge and the rainbow serpent?
Although the Python Challenge focuses on the capture of Burmese pythons, an invasive species, both efforts reflect the importance of wildlife conservation in Florida. Protecting native species like the rainbow snake and controlling invasive species such as Burmese pythons are crucial for preserving the ecological balance in the Everglades and other natural areas of the state.
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