Snakebite risk rises globally as climate change expands habitats

The risk of snakebite incidents is escalating globally due to climate change and expanding human activity, which are forcing venomous snakes to relocate their habitats. A comprehensive study, utilizing extensive data, has mapped the distribution and ranges of 508 venomous snake species, highlighting the growing potential for human-snake encounters.

The research, published in 'PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases,' analyzed the impact of climate change on snake habitats and their likelihood of interacting with humans. It predicts that species like the African puff adder, various venomous snakes in Europe and South America, the North American cottonmouth, and Asian cobras will have more frequent contact with people. This prediction is based on a developed 'Snake-Human Overlap Index' that forecasts changes by 2050 and 2090, using a high-end climate change scenario (SSP5-8.5) that projects a potential global temperature rise of up to 5.7 degrees Celsius by the century's end.

While many rare and endangered snakes face shrinking habitats, certain venomous species are expected to migrate towards higher latitudes and more populated areas. This shift means snakes previously less likely to encounter humans may expand their territories northward. For instance, the cottonmouth, currently in the southeastern U.S., could move as far north as New York by 2090. In India, where snakebites cause around 60,000 deaths annually, venomous snakes like cobras and Russell's vipers are predicted to move from southern to more populous northern regions.

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In 50 years, new species may appear in areas where they have not been found before, meaning contact with people who have not experienced these problems in the past.

However, many species, including the African puff adder, Amazon coral snake, and snakes in Papua New Guinea and Australia, face survival threats as their forest, wetland, and grassland habitats are converted for agriculture and ranching. Dr. David Williams, a co-author and scientist at the WHO, warned that new species could appear in previously unrecorded areas, leading to encounters with populations unfamiliar with these dangers. He cautioned that people might encounter snakes in backyards, near water sources, or even in playgrounds and sports fields.

This study aims to inform the strategic allocation of medical resources and preparedness efforts. Researchers suggest the predictions can help determine where antivenom should be stockpiled, how healthcare facilities can manage increased capacity, and how to conserve snake species threatened with extinction. While accurate statistics are challenging due to the remote nature of most snakebite incidents, the authors estimate approximately 4 million snakebites occur annually, predominantly in tropical regions.

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Some countries may encounter snakes in farmyards, near water sources, or even in playgrounds or sports fields.