Pre-incursion Plan PIP 005 Pythons and Boas

Scope

This plan is in place to guide prevention and eradication activities and the management of non-indigenous populations of pythons and boas (Order Squamata; Family Boidae) in the wild in Victoria.

Version Document Status Date Author Reviewed By Approved for Release

1.0 First Draft 01/07/11 Susan Wisniewski Simon Martin and Melinda Corry

1.1 Second Draft 02/09/11 Susan Wisniewski Melinda Corry, Andrew Woolnough and Dana Price

2.0 Final draft 27/06/12 Susan Wisniewski M. Corry

2.1 Final 27/06/12 Susan Wisniewski M.Corry Visual Standard approved by ADP

3.0 New final 30/05/16 Dana Price Adam Kay New DEDJTR templates and document revision

Acknowledgement and special thanks to Peter Courtney, Senior Curator, Zoos Victoria and Nick Clemann Department of Sustainability and Environment – Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Senior Scientist Threatened Fauna for reviewing this document and providing comments.

Published by the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources, Agriculture Victoria, May 2016 © The State of Victoria 2016. This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968. Authorised by the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources, 1 Spring Street, Melbourne 3000. Front cover: Boa Constrictor Photo: Image courtesy of Brigid Ennis DELWP Victoria For more information about Agriculture Victoria go to www.agriculture.vic.gov.au or phone the Customer Service Centre on 136 186.

ISBN 978-1-925532-39-5 (pdf/online)

Disclaimer This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication.

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Pre-incursion Plan PIP005 Pythons and Boas

Order: Squamata Family: Boidae

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Contents

Pre-incursion Plan PIP005 ...... 5

Table 1: Introduction ...... 5 Table 2: Declaration Status ...... 5 Table 3: Delimitation survey options...... 5 Table 4: Species specific delimitation options ...... 6 Table 5: Detection,control, monitoring and breeding calendar ...... 6 Table 6: Transport of live specimens...... 6-7 Table 7: Brief description of eradication and containment options ...... 7-10 Table 8: Species specific eradication and containment options ...... 11 Table 9: Brief description of disease, parasite and infection risks ...... 11-13 Table 10: Treatment specific WHS considerations ...... 13 Table 11: Animal related WHS considerations……………………………………………………………..…13 Table 12: Identification requirements - take photo/video and e-mail to: ...... 14 Table 13: Euthanasia options ...... 14 Table 14: Sampling/Autopsy requirements ...... 14 Table 15: Disposal options ...... 15 Table 16: Legislation, regulations and required permits...... 15 Table 17: General species and technical experts ...... 16 Table 18: List of Acronyms ...... 16 Table 19: Glossary ...... 17

Appendices ...... 18 1. Boidae Family: Species Specific Table ...... 18-23

References and Further Reading ...... 24

Photographic references ...... 25

Accessibility

If you would like to receive this information/publication in an accessible format (such as large print or audio) please call the Customer Service Centre on 136 186, TTY 1800 122 969, or email [email protected].

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Table 1: Introduction

Most species of boas and pythons listed here are fecund. They often have early maturation, rapid growth rates, high fecundity and are capable of large clutch sizes. Many pythons and boas also have a potentially long life, with captive longevities reported in excess of 30 years. Pythons and boas are mostly generalist predators, taking a variety of terrestrial vertebrates. In areas of abundant rodent populations, pythons can reach very high densities. Constrictors possess many traits that increase the severity of their possible ecological impacts. Some of these traits also exacerbate the challenge of controlling them and include large adult size, generalised habitat preferences, good swimming ability, arboreal when young, a sedentary and generalist predator, low detectability due to their cryptic nature and the capability of long distance dispersal. Other traits that increase their invasive impacts include being a potential host for diseases of economic, human and wildlife health significance, a tolerance of urbanisation and the ability to occur in high population densities. No introduced populations of reptiles have been intentionally eradicated anywhere on Earth (Reed & Rodda 2009). Beyond presenting a pest risk to Victoria, exotic Boids present a significant disease risk to native pythons because they are known to carry the infectious Inclusion Body Disease (IBD). This viral disease, which can be diagnosed in sick Boids but is usually confirmed at autopsy, has no cure and is always fatal. Snakes can be asymptomatic of the disease while still carrying and transmitting the virus (Reptile Expert 2011).

Table 2: Declaration Status in Victoria

Most species dealt with in this Pre-Incursion Plan are listed as Controlled Pest Animals under Section 65 of the Catchment and Land Protection (CALP) Act 1994. The Vertebrate Pest Committee lists the considered species as either having a Serious or Extreme/Not Assessed establishment threat. See species specific tables for details.

Table 3: Delimitation survey options

Method Description Time suggested to determine presence at site

1. Direct visual Use binoculars or spotting scopes to locate One day up to several weeks, depending observations (active snakes, may be best conducted from a on numbers of snakes and ease of searching) vehicle to maximise search area. conducting observations. How many snakes, location of daytime basking areas, direction and rate of dispersal.

2. Spot Light searches Use spotlights to search for snakes on warm One night, up to several weeks nights. depending on numbers of snakes and ease of conducting search.

3. Use of concrete Pipes of various sizes are placed in the These would have limited use as Boids refugia pipes ground with approximately 60% of the pipe generally warm up through direct covered. exposure to solar radiation, although still may be attractive to the snakes as refugia. They may be useful in conjunction with other survey methods.

4. Broad surveillance Doorknocking area, letterbox drops, media As required articles, networking with local reptile groups.

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Table 4: Species specific delimitation options

Please refer to Table 3 for a full description of options

Option 1 2 3 4

Dumeril’s boa √ √ √ √ Boa constrictor √ √ √ √ Reticulated python √ √ √ √ New Guinea Tree Boa √ √ √ Emerald tree boa √ √ √ Rainbow boa √ √ √ √ Yellow anaconda √ √ √ Sand boas √ √ Rosy boa √ √ Burmese python √ √ √ √ Blood python √ √ √ √ Indian python √ √ √ √ Ball python √ √ √ √ African rock python √ √ √ √

Table 5: Detection, control, monitoring and breeding calendar

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Detection √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √

Treatment √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √

Monitoring √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √

Breeding √ √ √ √ √ √

N.B. Green shading represents extrapolated optimal times for detection, control and monitoring in Victoria based on species habitat use in their native range. This information may vary according to Victorian conditions.

Table 6: Transport of live specimens

All reptiles should be transported in a strong, dry, durable, porous linen bag which shall, in turn, be enclosed by a sufficiently ventilated, escape-proof, rigid container. Any empty space should be padded with shredded paper to prevent excessive movement within the container. A cardboard box is not a suitable container. Transport in the shade in an air-conditioned vehicle cab (as per Code of practice for the welfare of animals – Private keeping of reptiles). Maintenance of biosecurity standards requires that there is only one reptile kept per container. This will ensure the protection of the diagnostic facility from potential pathogens.

Type of specimen Length/Weight Comments

Hatchlings and small <1.0m Care should be taken to ensure hatchlings are securely enclosed as snakes they are able to escape through even small gaps.

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Medium snakes <2.5m Transport according to the Code of practice.

Large Snakes >2.5m Appropriate linen bags will not be large enough for such snakes. In this case, securely lidded rubbish bins should be used with appropriate signage if the snakes are aggressive.

Table 7: Brief description of eradication and containment options

Method Description Time to Equipment Risks Comments control cost and Personnel required

1. Incidental Individual snakes are located Immediate Low cost as Inadequate This method could only encounters incidentally, often on roads snakes are numbers of be used in conjunction on warm nights reported as they animals are likely with other methods. are incidentally to be randomly located. The located to reduce Customer Service the overall Centre could population. handle such calls and pass on the information.

2. Active Involves trained personnel Immediate Direct searching The cryptic nature So far active searches searches conducting directed searches is the most widely of these species, are one of the most for individual animals. Such used tool for remaining hidden effective methods of searching can be done locating many and immobile for detecting and removing during mid mornings on reptiles, however long periods giant constrictors. sunny days as individuals it is very labour makes them very bask or on warm summer intensive and difficult to detect nights with spotlights. therefore costly. with active searches.

3. Active As above but with the Immediate Appropriate Reptiles are Appropriate equipment searches in addition of infrared detection equipment and ectothermic so and trained personnel conjunction tools which could assist in trained personnel this method has would need to be with infrared locating animals not directly would need to be limited acquired. (heat) visible. acquired practicality. detection.

4. Fencing This method attempts to limit Several days to Such structures Must be used in The degree of the spread of invasive boids. a week need to be built to conjunction with arboreality of each /barriers Physical barriers have been withstand random other control snake species (including drift extensively tested with events such as methods. (including juveniles) fencing) Brown Tree snakes and can bushfires which controls the be effective for that species can make them effectiveness of snake over a limited area costly. barrier construction. Barriers can play a major role in blocking the dispersal of snakes into high priority areas (eg villages, schools, individual bird nests). Drift fences can also be used to intercept

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Table 7: Brief description of eradication and containment options

Method Description Time to Equipment Risks Comments control cost and Personnel required

moving pythons and direct them towards traps.

5. Traps Traps equipped with funnel Dependant on Negligible. Would The primary Above all, the practical style entrances have been area to be take two drawback for trap size of an area that used for over half a century trapped and personnel to control is there could be trapped is to capture a variety of snake density setup and are not yet any small, and thus it would snakes. A key consideration monitor. designs for giant be necessary for an for traps is that giant constrictor traps incipient colonisation to constrictors appear to be that have be discovered and primarily sit-and-wait or demonstrated treated before the ambush foragers. Therefore effectiveness population spread very control tools that rely on the across all sizes. far. snakes’ movements may be limited in application.

6. Traps using Cone and flap traps have Traps using Pythons and boas There is the The infrequent feeding live prey been used successfully to live bait are are all strongly possibility that the nature of snakes trap Habu (Trimeresurus sp) labour attracted to live bait could complicates their with live rodents as bait and intensive as endothermic prey. escape. trapping by food-based can be relatively easily live bait needs attractants. There are constructed with wood and food, water and also significant costs wire. Large box traps shelter and with laying, maintaining equipped with bamboo and require (traps and bait), rattan funnel entrances and additional checking and removing baited with live chickens approvals. traps using bait. There have also been used are also animal ethics successfully in Borneo to trap considerations when large constrictors. using live bait, which could be controversial.

7. Detector Detector dogs on Guam have Ongoing Experience with A likely drawback Where they might be dogs detected known radio- detector dogs of sniffer dog useful is in the Six weeks to telemetered snakes in a indicates that this detection of giant detection of the last over a year to defined search plot in about capability is well constrictors is that few snakes in an train a new dog 35 percent of trials. within a good the dogs, which incipient colonisation and handler dogs’ abilities, but are expensive to that was detected early This indicates that a requires lengthy train and maintain enough to carry out substantial fraction of the training. could be injured eradication by other snakes was not located, but by their targets. means. that dog teams are far more All of the giant effective than human The dog would have to constrictors have searchers. be able to distinguish demonstrated an the target giant appetite for dogs. constrictor species Even if an from native constrictors attempted and other native ingestion were to snakes. Training of be unsuccessful, detector dogs is the dog could unlikely to be justifiable become reluctant for a giant constrictor Pre-Incursion Plan PIP005 Pythons and Boas 8

Table 7: Brief description of eradication and containment options

Method Description Time to Equipment Risks Comments control cost and Personnel required

to hunt for giant species that is not yet constrictors if it known to be present in had a bad Australia. If training experience with was delayed until the one. population was unequivocally established, the requisite training and testing time might be too much for the dog team to be available for the timely eradication of an incipient population.

8. Shooting An appreciable drawback of Variable Minimal cost – Snakes are Only useful for larger reliance on firearms is the contractor and notoriously species. Would require restriction to ricochet-safe two personnel difficult to kill via silencer and populous areas and the required use of shooting as their place permits if trained shooters. heads are small conducted in urban and offer a area. relatively small Shooting is often target. restricted in National Parks.

9. Use of Vertebrate predator-based Long term Extensive The record of There is also a bioscontrol biocontrol has been research on a successes is question as to which agent attempted on numerous biocontrol agent small, and the higher order predator (predator) occasions would need to be number of would qualify for thorough and catastrophic preying on giant could take many failures (non- constrictors. years. target species decimated by the predator) is large.

10. Use of a By introducing disease, Long term – Extensive costs – One highly Pathogen based biocontrol parasite, or fungus there is slow acting, research on a significant biocontrol has agent the hope they will be highly more of a biocontrol agent impediment is that limitations. Vertebrate (pathogens contagious and fatal, and containment would need to be the science of immune systems tend and parasites) thereby depress the benefit after thorough and snake to interact with population (Reed & Rodda establishment could take many epidemiology is pathogens to produce 2009). It is noteworthy that years. extremely limited. progressively lower biocontrol has not been used Virtually nothing is virulence in the for the eradication of invasive known about the biocontrol agent over species. virulence, spread, generations. Viruses or pathways of are also notoriously diseases of unstable and prone to snakes in the jump to non-target wild. hosts.

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Table 7: Brief description of eradication and containment options

Method Description Time to Equipment Risks Comments control cost and Personnel required

11. Toxicants Rodents are particularly Dependant on The main obstacle Key challenge is It is therefore very attractive targets for size of area to is finding a finding a way to difficult to see how one toxicants. They gnaw be baited method of delivery prevent harm to would poison invasive impulsively, some species exclusively to non-target snakes without cannot regurgitate and their target snakes. If a species, considerable and small size and high targeted delivery especially non- possibly unacceptable metabolism dictate nearly system could be target snakes. ancillary damage to continuous feeding. Snakes found, toxicants non-target carnivorous may go without eating for could be highly or omnivorous birds, months at a time. Toxicants valuable, but at mammals, amphibians, have not been used widely present none are and reptiles. for snakes, although a in use. number of substances highly toxic to snakes are known.

12. Judas A Judas snake would have a Medium term Transmitters need As giant A constraint on this animals transmitter surgically to be surgically constrictors seek approach with giant implanted so it could be implanted under out their own kind constrictors is that the reliably tracked. From a anaesthetic. primarily or Judas snake would demographic perspective the Depending on the exclusively for generally lead to only a most valuable targets are time of year, it mating, juvenile single female at a time. adult females; thus one could take weeks snakes are not The cost of the would radio-mark adult for the Judas likely to be requisite radio-tracking males, which could lead one animals to find a vulnerable to is substantial. (at the appropriate season) mate. exposure by the to adult females. Judas animal.

13. Bounties A bounty is a payment Bounties are Bounties can be Bounties do not If eliminating an offered for the capture of a often run for a reasonably have a favourable invasive species is a person, object or animal. period of expensive to run reputation for the social good, an months to as there are management of economic incentive for years. administrative invasive species, its persistence should costs as well as in that they pay not be created. payouts for people for individual animals activities they handed in. would do anyway and rarely result in eradication.

14. There is some support for Long term to Basic research for The difficulty is Unfortunately, nothing Reproductive non-lethal control tools as develop this approach finding a is known of inhibitors well as concern for non- runs a high risk of reproductive reproductive target deaths being time inhibitor that physiology of giant consuming, would impair the constrictors that expensive and reproduction of suggests a uniqueness fruitless. giant constrictors that could be exploited but not that of for the purpose of non-target contraception. snakes.

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Table 8: Species specific eradication and containment options

Please refer to Table 7 for a full description of options

Option 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

Dumeril’s boa     

Boa        constrictor Reticulated        python New Guinea    Tree Boa Emerald tree    boa Rainbow boa   

Yellow     anaconda Sand boas  

Rosy boa     

Burmese         python Blood python      

Indian python       

Ball python     

African rock        python

Table 9: Brief description of disease, parasite and infection risks

Zoonoses Disease Transmission route WHS considerations Notification agent requirements

Aeromoniasis Bacterial agent Common bacteria Disposable gloves should NA found in healthy be worn when handling reptiles. Directly from bites and scratches or any reptiles. infected water. Cryptosporidiosis Internal Ingestion of the Disposable gloves should Reportable to the parasite organism's eggs or be worn when handling National Notifiable (a coccidian larvae in faeces, saliva any reptiles. or body secretions or Diseases Surveillance parasite) contaminated water System (NNDSS) if transmitted to a human.

Enterobacter/ Bacterial Common bacteria Disposable gloves should NA found in healthy Klebsiella agents be worn when handling reptiles. Infection can lead to a wide range of any reptiles. disease states, notably pneumonia, urinary tract infections, septicemia, ankylosing spondylitis and soft tissue infections. Leptospirosis Bacterial agent Transmitted via contact Disposable gloves should Reportable to the (Spirochaete (through skin be worn when handling National Notifiable bacterium or ingested) with water, Pre-Incursion Plan PIP005 Pythons and Boas 11

Table 9: Brief description of disease, parasite and infection risks

Zoonoses Disease Transmission route WHS considerations Notification agent requirements

called soil or food any reptiles. Diseases Surveillance Leptospira contaminated with System (NNDSS) if spp.) body fluids from transmitted to a human. infected animals.

Mycobacterium Bacterial agent Known to cause Disposable gloves should NA tuberculosis and be worn when handling leprosy any reptiles. Face masks should also be worn. Pentastomiasis Internal Ingestion of the Disposable gloves should NA (Linguatula parasite organism's eggs or be worn when handling seratta) larvae in faeces, saliva or body any reptiles. secretions Proteus Bacterial agent Faecal oral Disposable gloves should NA transmission through be worn when handling direct or indirect any reptiles. digestion.

Pseudomonas Bacterial agent This organism is fairly Disposable gloves should NA common in the be worn when handling oral cavities of reptiles and can be any reptiles. transmitted through contamination of wounds.

Q fever Bacterial agent Transmission is Disposable gloves should Reportable to the (Coxiella (inc. thought to occur by be worn when handling National Notifiable Legionnaire’s direct contact, tick bite any reptiles. Face masks burnetti) Diseases Surveillance disease) or inhalation. should also be worn. System (NNDSS) if transmitted to a human.

Rocky Mountain Rickettsia Transmitted by the Disposable gloves should NA Spotted Fever honei snake tick, be worn when handling Aponomma hydrosauri any reptiles. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeved tops and pants and thick gloves when handling Salmonellosis Enterobacteria Faecal-oral Disposable gloves should Reportable to the transmission through be worn when handling National Notifiable direct or indirect any reptiles. Captivity appears to predispose Diseases Surveillance ingestion. reptiles to excrete System (NNDSS) if Salmonella which could transmitted to a human. then be ingested. Face masks should be worn. Notify within 7 days (Livestock Disease Control Act 1994).

Western Equine Viral disease Transmitted by Reptiles can be a NA Encephalitis mosquitoes reservoir of Western Equine Encephalitis. The mechanism and zoonotic potential of this are not clear at this time (Exotic Pets Vet).

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Table 9: Brief description of disease, parasite and infection risks

Zoonoses Disease Transmission route WHS considerations Notification agent requirements

Yersiniosis (e.g. Bacterial agent Ingestion of bacterium Disposable gloves should NA through consumption Plesimonas) be worn when handling of undercooked meat, unpasteurized milk or any reptiles. contaminated water. External parasites Mites and ticks Direct contact with Disposable gloves and NA insect repellent should be animals or infested worn. enclosures.

Fungal infections Protozoal Inhalation or ingestion Disposable gloves should NA organisms of spores, through be worn when handling inoculation of wounds. any reptiles. Face masks should also be worn.

Table 10: Treatment specific WHS considerations

Hazard Control

Spread of Inclusion Body Disease (IBD). Ensure proper cleaning, disinfecting and /or sterilising of equipment The transmission routes of IDB is not yet and footwear when moving between sites. know, however it is most probably by direct Wear single-use gloves (latex or nitrile) when handling any reptile. contact. Animals obtained at different sites are kept isolated from each other. Refer to the relevant ASBO Job Safety Plan: Field Operations SOP for further details.

Table 11: Animal related WHS considerations

Serious bite risk Potentially fatal constriction

Dumeril’s boa 

Boa constrictor 

Reticulated python  

New Guinea Tree Boa

Emerald tree boa

Rainbow boa

Yellow anaconda  

Sand boas

Rosy boa

Burmese python  

Blood python 

Indian python  

Ball python

African rock python  

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Table 12: Identification requirements - take photo/video and e-mail to:

Name Organisation Contact Details

Dr Jane Melville Museum Victoria (03) 83417444 (Senior Curator – [email protected] Terrestrial Vertebrates)

See document titled ‘Procedure for Museum Victoria Identifications’ for details on the delivery of live or dead specimens to museum staff.

Table 13: Euthanasia options

Method Description Comments

1. Lethal Injection Inject 60mg/kg of pentobarbitone sodium A DEDJTR Veterinarian or registered user of (Lethobarb) via an intravenous route. This is the most barbiturates is required to undertake this preferred euthanasia method method. A non-vet can administer lethobarb (ANZZCART, 2001 and AVMA, 2013 ) under veterinary direction

2. Decapitation and Render animal unconscious (with a blow This is an acceptable field method – with destruction of the brain to head) then decapitate with a sharp some reservations associated with aesthetic instrument (ANZCCART, 2001 and unpleasantness (AVMA, 2013). Trained and AVMA, 2013) experienced persons only to utilise this method.

3. Shooting or use of Shooting with a stun gun is used in Mortally wounded reptiles (even those shot penetrative captive bolt Australia to incapacitate large through the head) are notorious for crawling crocodilians and potentially could be some distance before dying, and the head of used on giant constrictors as well (AVMA, a giant constrictor is a relatively small target; 2013). shooting can be an unreliable method of euthanasia.

Table 14: Sampling/Autopsy requirements

Sampling required Cost Provider Comments

Antemortem examination, Up to 5kgs -$129 AgriBio Veterinary Diagnostic Cost includes euthanasia via necropsy procedure, Services lethal injection. Cost for 5-60 kgs – $194 gross examination of Mark Hawes (03) 90327275 analysis of necropsy tissues, collection and samples is additional and storage of samples. dependant on the number of samples.

Euthanasia of animals if Depends on Dr Shane Simpson Specialist herpetological vet required for taxidermy services rendered Karingal Veterinary Clinic services. purposes 328 Cranbourne Rd, Frankston [email protected] (03) 97893444

Refer to SOP: Tissue Sampling for further details as to sampling methods and requirements for DNA analysis

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Table 15: Disposal options

Method Description Cost Comments

Incineration Animal remains are destroyed in high $3.00/kg Is used by AgriBio Veterinary temperature incinerator Diagnostic Services for disposal of all animal carcasses

Deep Burial Bury animal remains to reduce transmission Minor To be used only as a back-up option and spread of bacteria/disease cost at Council approved animal pits.

Table 16: Legislation, regulations and required permits

Permits & training Why required? Legislation Contact person

Animal Ethics Approval To trap, sample & euthanize Wildlife Act 1975 Max Campbell EO Wildlife and invasive boids (DELWP) Small Institutions AEC 03 92174429

Pest Animal – Approved To keep Pest Animals for longer Catchment and Jenni Nunan DEDJTR Pest Collections (Animal than 12 hours. Animals retained for Land Protection Animal Permit Administrator Exhibition) Permit communications and engagement Act 1994 03 5761 1580 activities must be kept under permit (DELWP) and in accordance with the COP for Welfare of Animals – Private keeping of Reptiles.

Local Land Manager Seek appropriate approvals Variable Variable (Council, Parks Victoria, Water Authority)

POCTA Regulations Consult regulations before any Prevention of Jane Malcolm – DEDJTR Senior trapping is undertaken Cruelty to Policy Officer-Animal Welfare Animals Act [email protected] (1986) (03) 51470829 0428 547135

‘Populous Place’ and These permits are required when Firearms Act Catherine Leask (first contact) or ‘Silencer’ permits using firearms with a silencer (1996) Theresa Borg (secondary (suppressor) attached and/or in a contact)– Victoria Police populous place (s.130(3) and 57 (03) 9247 3249 Firearms Act 1996) .

Scientific Permit To carry out collection (including Wildlife Act Sue Hadden DSE inadvertent), live capture and (1975) (03) 9296 4651 release of wildlife

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Table 17: General species and technical experts

Name Organisation Contact Area of expertise

Michelle IA CRC National [email protected] Background working with large Christy Incursions Response (08) 93634060 Mob: 0455097345 terrestrial snakes. Facilitator

Nick DELWP Senior [email protected] Herpetologist Clemann Scientist Threatened (03) 9450 8674 Mob: 0427 650 167 Fauna

Katie DELWP Technical [email protected] Herpetologist Howard Support Officer (03) 9450 8635 Mob: 0428 359 095

Peter Wildlife Profiles [email protected] Specialist herpetologist, surveillance Robertson (03) 9718 2828 Mob: 0429 339697 of rare and cryptic species.

Dr Mike Faculty of Science [email protected] Used by AQIS for his herp Tyler Uni of Adelaide (08) 83035977 identification expertise

Table 18: List of Acronyms

ACO Artificial Cover Object

APVMA Australasian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicine Association

AVMA American Veterinary Medicine Association

AQIS Australian Quarantine Inspection Service

ARI Arthur Rylah Institute

AVMA American Veterinary Medicine Association

COP Code of Practice

DNA Deoxyribonucleic acid

DEDJTR Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources

DELWP Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning

IBD Inclusion Body Disease

IPAC Invasive Plants and Animals Committee

NHMRC National Health and Medical Research Council

NNDSS National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System

PCO Pest Control Officer

POCTA Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act

PPE Personal Protective Equipment

SOP Standard Operating Procedure

WHS Workplace Health and Safety

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Table 19: Glossary

Arboreal A tree-living species

Asymptomatic Without obvious signs or symptoms of disease

Brumation Dormancy in reptiles that is similar to hibernation, but differs from hibernation in the metabolic processes involved.

Ectothermic An animal whose body temperature varies with the temperature of its surroundings. A “cold blooded” animal that can not regulate their body temperature.

Epidemiology The study of disease

Fecundity Capable of producing offspring in abundant numbers

Herpetologist An expert who specialises in amphibians and reptiles

Invasive A species that does not naturally occur in a specific area and whose introduction does or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health.

Labial pit Facial pits that allow some snakes the ability to sense infrared thermal radiation, essentially allowing these snakes to “see” radiant heat. Boas and pythons have three or more comparatively small pits lining the upper and sometimes lower lip, in or between the scales.

Non- Arriving from another place rather than naturally existing in a place indigenous

Oviparous Animals that lay eggs, with little or no other embryonic development within the mother.

Ovoviviparous Animals in which the embryos develop inside eggs that are retained within the mother’s body until they are ready to hatch.

Terrestrial An animal that lives on or near the ground, as opposed to living in water or in trees.

Viviparous Animals in which development of the embryo is inside the body of the mother, eventually leading to live birth.

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Appendices

1. Boidae Family: Species Specific Table

IPAC Incursion status Species General classification In the wild Diet Habitat / Behaviour Breeding description & CaLP declaration VIC AUS

Acrantophis Usually grows IPAC Not 3 seized, Not found in Prey on a Found on Madagascar and Sexual maturity is reached dumerili to about The Listed/Extreme surrendered or the wild wide variety of Reunion Island. Lives in within 3-5 years. Their natural colour pattern found at large An additional 8 animals semiarid habitats with low range mating season is from consists of a since 1999 (K. including other rainfall. In captivity they March through to May and the Dumeril’s boa CALP individuals of grey-brown Controlled Larner, Pers. this species snakes. typically have docile natures. young are born 6- 8 months ground colour Comm.) have been later. They are ovoviviparous with darker detected at the and females give birth to litters patches.2.0 border since of between 6-28 neonates. metres. 1999. They breed quite prolifically in captivity.

Boa constrictor Usually grows IPAC Serious Kept under Not found in Prey includes Found in Mexico, Central Sexual maturity is reached to 2.5 meters. CALP permit. the wild a wide variety and South America. Found within 4-5 years. Their natural of mammals in a wide variety of habitats, range mating season is Boa constrictor A large and CALP 107 individual Additional and birds. but prefers rainforests. It is a between April and August, heavy-bodied Controlled animals animals have snake. No seized, been detected capable swimmer and will during the dry season. labial pits. surrendered or at the border in occupy burrows. They are ovoviviparous and Colour pattern found at large NSW, Qld and Predominantly nocturnal but females can produce over 30 is variable, but since between WA between will bask during the day. live young per litter. distinctive with 1999 and 1999 and 2012. Extremely common in the a brown, grey 2012 (K. Since 2012, international pet trade. or cream base Larner, five more boas colour and pers.comm.). (including 2 reddish brown Since 2012, Red-tailed saddles another 5 Colombian becoming boas have boas) have more been seized been seized pronounced from illegal from illegal towards the keepers. keeping in tail. NSW & Qld . Pre-Incursion Plan PIP005 Pythons and Boas 18

IPAC Incursion status Species General classification In the wild Diet Habitat / Behaviour Breeding description & CaLP declaration VIC AUS

Broghammerus World’s IPAC Serious Kept under Two detected Their natural Found in south-east Asia. They are oviparous and longest snake. CALP permit at the border diet includes An excellent swimmer that reticulatus females can lay up to 80 eggs Can grow to CALP between 1999 mammals and has been found far out at per clutch which take 88 days 8.7 meters. and 2012. In occasionally sea, allowing it to colonise Reticulated Controlled to hatch. The name 2014/15, two birds. offshore islands. Inhabits python reticulated is a more animals rainforest, woodlands and reference to were picked up nearby grasslands. the complex as stowaways colour pattern in mail from of this snake. Indonesia.

Candoia carinata Usually only IPAC Serious Five have been Primary diet Found in Indonesia, New Breeding typically occurs early grows to 1.0 detected at the consists of Guinea and the Bismarck in the years after rains in their New Guinea Tree meters. Highly CALP border since frogs and Archipelago. Generally native range. Gives birth to an variable in Controlled 1999. lizards. considered a have a average if 10 young. Boa colour and nervous disposition but will pattern with tolerate human habitation. their colour varying from dark brown to orange-like- brown. Crallus caninus Usually grows IPAC Serious Kept under An additional 2 Primarily Found in the rainforests of Ovoviviparous with the female to 1.8 meters. CALP permit. individuals feeds on South America. Strictly producing average litters of 6- Emerald tree boa Photo is of CALP Two have were detected mammals but nocturnal and arboreal in a 14 young. juvenile. been seized, at the border will take birds, characteristic coil over a tree Controlled Typically an surrendered or (in mail from lizards and branch with its head perched emerald green found at large Sweden) and 4 frogs. at the center. colour with since 1999. detected in white, irregular NSW & QLD zigzags on the since 1999. back with a yellow belly.

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IPAC Incursion status Species General classification In the wild Diet Habitat / Behaviour Breeding description & CaLP declaration VIC AUS

Epicrates cenchria Usually grows IPAC Serious Kept under 15 detected at Their diet A terrestrial species found in Viviparous. Gestation lasts to 1.5 meters. CALP permit the border and consists of Central and South America. about five months. Average Rainbow boa It has an CALP Thirteen have in NSW and SA rodents, birds Popular as a pet in many litter size is 25, but can be as attractive since 1999. and lizards. countries. large as 35 young. Controlled been seized, iridescent surrendered or sheen. found at large Rainbow boas since 1999. are usually red with black markings.

Eunectes notaeus Usually grows IPAC Serious Kept under A generalist Found in South America. Viviparous. They breed to 3.7 meters. CALP permit. feeder with a Has a reputation for being between April and May in their The color One individual preference for unpredictable. Prefers native range. Gestation is 6 Yellow anaconda CALP pattern Controlled has been wading birds. aquatic habitats including months after which the female consists of a seized, They are also swamp, marsh and brush gives birth to 4 to 82 young. yellow, golden- surrendered or known to take covered banks of slow tan or found at large fish, turtles, moving rivers and streams. greenish- since 1999. lizards and yellow base small color overlaid mammals. with a series of black or dark brown saddles, blotches, spots and streaks

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IPAC Incursion status Species General classification In the wild Diet Habitat / Behaviour Breeding description & CaLP declaration VIC AUS

Eryx and Usually only IPAC Unlisted/ Six individulas Additional Their primary These snakes are found in Ovoviviparous. grows to 1.0 have been animals diet consists Europe, northern Africa, Gongylophis Extreme meter. Stout- seized, detected at the of rodents, but Middle East and south-west species bodied snakes surrendered or border (6 in they will Asia. Competent burrowers. with small CALP found at large mail) and 4 in include lizards Usually occurs in semi- Sand boas eyes and small Controlled and since 1999. NSW) since and birds in desert and scrub savannah. scales. Some Prohibited 1999. their diet. Prefers sandy, friable soil. species have been bred into various colour varieties.

Lichanura Usually only IPAC Unlisted/ Three An additional 2 They forage Found in the American south Rosy boas are viviparous and grows to 1.0 Extreme individuals have been mainly for west and Mexico, generally bear live young, about 6 per trivirgata litter. meter. have been detected at the small in exceedingly dry habitats. Colouration is seized, border (in mail) mammals, Spend most of their lives Rosy boa highly variable. CALP surrendered or between 1999 although have concealed beneath rocks Almost all prohibited found at large and 2012. In been known to and in crevices. Even wild Rosy Boas since 1999. 2013/14, two take lizards snakes are extremely docile. have at least animals were and birds. some trace of seized from three illegal keeping longitudinal in NSW. . stripes. Python bivittatus Can attain IPAC Serious Kept under An additional Diet consists Native range of southern Females usually lay 12- 36 lengths of 4.5 CALP permit. 21 animals of and south-eastern Asia. eggs, but are capable of laying meters. They Six individuals have been appropriately Mainly nocturnal rainforest as many as 100 eggs after a Burmese python CALP are dark Controlled have been detected at the sized dwellers that are often found 60-90 day gestation period. snakes with (declared under seized, border since mammals and near water. They are The mother incubates and many brown surrendered or 1999 (including birds. excellent swimmers and protects the eggs by coiling on Python blotches molurus) found at targe 12 in mail from spend the majority of their top of them. Incubation lasts bordered in since 1999. Sweden, 2 in time hidden in vegetation, about 2 months after which the black down the QLD from but can be found in trees. In hatchlings emerge. back. Thailand, and 7 Florida, primarily diurnal in seized or winter and nocturnal in surrendered on summer. Able to tolerate NSW, QLD and cold weather through WA). brumation. Often sold as pets in other countries and Pre-Incursion Plan PIP005 Pythons and Boas 21

IPAC Incursion status Species General classification In the wild Diet Habitat / Behaviour Breeding description & CaLP declaration VIC AUS

while they are known for their docility, they are very powerful animals. This species has proven invasive qualities and has established feral populations in Florida. Python curtus Usually grows IPAC Serious Kept under One animal They feed on Found in rainforest, marshes Oviparous with females to 2.5 meters. CALP permit seized or a variety of and swamps of south-east seldom laying more than 12 Blood python CALP surrendered in mammals and Asia. Usually docile but can eggs. The female protects the controlled WA between birds. be unpredictable. clutch during incubation which 1999 and 2012. usually lasts 2.5-3 months. In 2014/15, one blood python was found as a stowaway in bags from Indonesia. Python molurus Can reach IPAC Serious Diet consists Occurs in a wide range of Oviparous with up to 100 eggs lengths of 6.0 of habitats but is dependent on laid. meters. appropriately a permanent source of Indian python CALP Controlled sized water. Generally lethargic mammals and and timid. birds.

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IPAC Incursion status Species General classification In the wild Diet Habitat / Behaviour Breeding description & CaLP declaration VIC AUS

Python regius Usually only IPAC Serious Kept under An additional 4 Their diet Found throughout most of Females are oviparous and lay grows to 1.2 CALP permit. animals have consists of central Africa preferring between 3-11 large eggs. The female incubates the eggs Ball python meters. Stocky CALP Four have been seized or small grasslands, savannah and build with been seized, surrendered in mammals sparsely wooded areas. which hatch after 55- 60 days. controlled relatively small surrendered or NSW since such as rats, head. Smooth found at large 1999 shrews and scales, both since 1999. striped mice. sexes have Younger anal spurs on animals have either side of been known to the vent. feed on birds.

Python sebae Can grow to IPAC Serious Kept under Feed on a Found in variety of habitats, Reproduction occurs in the 5.0 meters. CALP permit variety of from forest to near desert, spring in their native range. African rock CALP large rodents, although usually near water. Female lay between 20-100 controlled monkeys, Known to have an eggs and will guard eggs and python warthogs, unpredictable temperament. hatchlings. antelopes, fruit bats, monitors and crocodiles as well as rodents, poultry, dogs and goats in urban areas.

The species selected to be including in this table were species that have been detected in illegal trade or found at large in Australia or intercepted at the Australian border. The data were provided by the Compliance Support Branch of the Department of Sustainability and Environment and the publication by Henderson and Bomford 2011.

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References and further reading

American Veterinary Medical Association, 2013. The AVMA Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals: 2013 Edition. Document is available electronically at: https://www.avma.org/KB/Policies/Documents/euthanasia.pdf Australian New Zealand Council for the Care of Animals in Research and Teaching (ANZCCART) 2001. Euthanasia of Animals Used for Scientific Purposes, Adelaide University, Department of Environmental Biology, South Australia.

Bush, B 2000, Inclusion Body Disease (IBD) in Pythons: a Reminder of the Importance of Quarantine. Appendix to WASAH Newsletter No. 21. Retrieved November 25, 2011, from http://members.iinet.net.au/~bush/append21.html

Bomford, M. 2003. Risk-Assessment for the Import and Keeping of Exotic Vertebrates in Australia. Bureau of Rural Sciences, Canberra.

Bomford, M. 2008. Risk-Assessment Models Report. Bureau of Rural Sciences, Invasive Animals CRC Canberra.

Christy, M. 2015. National Incursion Response Plan for Terrestrial Snakes. PestSmart Toolkit publication, Invasive Animals Cooperative Research Centre, Canberra, Australia.

Department of Primary Industries. Code of Practice for the welfare of animals – Private keeping of reptiles. Sourced online at http://new.DEDJTR.vic.gov.au/agriculture/about-agriculture/legislation-regulation/animal-welfare-legislation/codes-of- practice-animal-welfare/private-keeping-of-reptiles

Exotic Pets Vet, Medical aspects of captive reptiles. Retrieved September 2, 2011 from http://www.exoticpetsvet.com/reptilemedical.html

Henderson, W and Bomford, M. 2011. Detecting and preventing new incursions of exotic animals in Australia. Invasive Animals Cooperative Research Centre, Canberra.

Institutional Animal Care and Use Facility. Zoonoses of fish, amphibians and reptiles. Austin Peay State University, Tennessee.

Lever, C. 2003. Naturalised Reptiles and Amphibians of the World. Oxford University Press, New York.

Massam, M, Kirkpatrick, W and Page, A. 2010. Assessment and prioritisation of risk for forty introduced animal species. Invasive animals Cooperative Research Centre, Canberra.

Reed, RN & Rodda, GH 2009, Giant constrictors: biological and management profiles and an establishment risk assessment for nine large species of pythons, anacondas, and the boa constrictor: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 2009–1202, 302p

Reed, RN, Hart, KM, Rodda, GH, Mazzotti, FJ, et al. 2011, A field test of attractant traps for invasive Burmese pythons (Python molurus bivittatus) in southern Florida. Wildlife Research 38(2) pp.114-121.

Reilly, J.S. 2001. Euthanasia of Animals Used for Scientific Purposes, ANZCCART, Department of Environmental Biology, Adelaide University, Adelaide

Reptile Expert, 2011, Inclusion Body Disease, Retrieved on September 20, 2011, from http://www.reptileexpert.co.uk/BodyInclusionDisease.html

Sharp, T. & Saunders, G. 2003. GEN001 Methods of Euthanasia. Department of Primary Industries, New South Wales Retrieved on November 25, 2011 from http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/invasive/publications/pubs/gen001- methods-euthanasia.pdf)

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Photographic References Species Website

Dumeril’s boa https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Acrantophis_dumerili.jpg

Boa constrictor https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Boa_constrictor,_Va%C5%88kovka,_Brno_(2).jpg

Reticulated http://www.backwaterreptiles.com/pythons/reticulated-python-for-sale.html python

New Guinea https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Candoia_carinata#/media/File:Pazifikboa.jpg tree boa

Emerald tree https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Emerald_Tree_Boa_Wrapped_on_a_Branch_2480px.jpg boa

Rainbow boa https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rainbow_boa#/media/File:Rainbow_boa_peruvian.jpg

Yellow https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yellow_anaconda#/media/File:Anaconda_jaune_34.JPG anaconda

Sand boa https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Eryx_jaculus.jpg

Rosy boa https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosy_boa#/media/File:Lichanura-trivirgata.jpg

Burmese https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burmese_python#/media/File:Burmese_python_(6887388927).jpg python

Blood python https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Python_curtus#/media/File:Python_curtus_(2).jpg

Indian python https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Python_molurus#/media/File:Python_molurus_molurus_2.jpg

Ball python https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ball_python#/media/File:Ball_python_lucy.JPG

African rock https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/African_rock_python#/media/File:Adult_Female_Python_sebae_1.33aspec python t.jpg

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