In addition a fifth island, five times the size of any island previously investigated, will be studied. We have calculated that this island may support only about 20 snakes, said Smith. Including the 80 to 100 snakes left alive on Great Bird Island, this will leave the entire population at something less than 150 snakes, assuming successful reproduction at reintroduction sites. We are still looking for more reintroduction sites. It is anticipated that at least 500 snakes must survive in the wild for a stable population to exist.
Some studies suggest more is necessary.
For the Antiguan Racer, we are continuing to identify more islands or larger islands suitable for reintroductions, both to increase population size and to increase the number of populations in the wild, said the BH herpetologist. D.C. The conservation project began in 1995. Members of the ARCP have received individual grants for various research project including funds for educational efforts, snake census, lizard surveys and for eradication of rats, which prey on the snakes. Smith has also received funding for the Antiguan Racer research project from the BHSU faculty research fund, the dean s council, and the Nelson Scholarship fund. The BHSU herpetologist has been a member of the university science faculty since 1997.