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Adders in decline: climate change and habitat loss threaten the snakes!
Fewer adder bites in Braunschweig: Climate change endangers the snake species. Experts warn of habitat-related decline.
Adders in decline: climate change and habitat loss threaten the snakes!
One of the most fascinating and at the same time most threatened species in northern Germany, the adder, is increasingly the focus of conservation efforts. Loud NDR Remarkable changes have been observed in recent years: The decline in calls to the North Poison Information Center in Göttingen speaks volumes. While a decade ago there were around 50 calls per year about suspected bites, there are now only 20. This could be a sign that encounters with the adder and therefore the bites are becoming less common.
But what is behind this decline? Experts like Michael Pees from the Hanover University of Veterinary Medicine warn: The adder is highly endangered and faces a variety of threats. “The loss of suitable habitat is one of the main reasons for the disappearance of the species,” explains Pees. These snakes are primarily at home in wet-dry transition areas, such as moors. These habitats are increasingly being affected by climate change, which further reduces the adder's chances of survival.
The causes of the decline
The picture that presents itself to us is not rosy. In addition to the loss of habitat due to urban development and agriculture, it is primarily extreme weather conditions that affect the adder. Droughts and changes in moorland areas, which are of great importance for the animals, further aggravate the situation. The Weather page also points out diseases such as fungal diseases, which can also have a negative impact on the population.
Another problem is the lack of connectivity between remaining habitats, which makes it difficult for adders to reproduce and maintain a healthy population. These corridors are crucial for allowing animals to move freely and maintaining their genetic diversity. Veterinarians and conservationists agree: action must be taken here.
The adders in society
Despite their danger, there are also bright spots. Projects for breeding and releasing adders into the wild, for example in the Harz Mountains, try to support the species. The German Society for Herpetology and Terrarium Science (DGHT) has even named the adder “Reptile of the Year 2024”, which is bringing the species additional attention.
The most common adder bites are not life-threatening to humans. However, medical treatment is advisable as the consequences of a bite often include swelling. The highly endangered species, which is on the Red List, is mainly distributed in the moor and heath areas of the North German Plain and in East Germany. Many people don't even know that the adder is, along with the aspis viper, the only poisonous snake in Germany.
The management of the protected area calls on the population to report observations. Active participation could help to collect valuable data and ensure the long-term stay of these special animals in our landscapes. So it's up to us to have a good hand and work together to protect the adders.