Conservations NG

Author: Omobolaji Durojaiye

  • Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation

    Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation

    In 2024, as we commemorate World Wildlife Day, the international community comes together with the common goal of “Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation.” In a time where technology reigns supreme, utilizing digital innovation is important to protecting the rich ecosystems of our planet and the diverse range of species that call them home.

    The realm of wildlife conservation has been transformed by digital tools and technology. These advancements, such as advanced monitoring systems and artificial intelligence, offer matchless knowledge about the environment. With remote sensing, satellite imaging, and advanced camera traps, researchers can efficiently collect data, improving our comprehension of ecosystems and animal behaviour.

    Real-time monitoring is an important element of digital advancements in wildlife preservation. By utilizing connected devices and sensor networks, conservationists can effectively monitor the behaviours and movements of endangered species. This enables them to quickly identify and address potential dangers, such as poaching or habitat destruction. Additionally, sophisticated data analysis plays a significant role in interpreting large amounts of data, assisting scientists in making well-informed decisions for conservation plans.

    The rise of digital platforms has provided opportunities for citizens to take part in conservation efforts for wildlife. By utilizing mobile applications and internet-based platforms, people from all over the world can play a role in collecting data, identifying species, and monitoring initiatives. This democratization of scientific involvement cultivates a feeling of worldwide accountability, establishing a community of environmentally aware individuals actively working towards protecting biodiversity.

    The impact of digital innovation goes beyond its application in various fields and also influences education and advocacy. Through virtual reality experiences, individuals can fully immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, leading to a stronger bond between people and the environment. These educational resources not only bring attention to endangered species and ecosystems but also instill a sense of duty and care towards them

    World Wildlife Day 2024 highlights the vital link between people and the planet using digital innovation for wildlife conservation. In our digital age, let’s use technology to safeguard Earth’s diverse life. Through creative solutions, we connect people and the planet, fostering a sustainable future where biodiversity flourishes and humans live in harmony with nature.

  • House of Representatives Initiates Landmark Legislation for Endangered Species Conservation and Protection in Nigeria

    House of Representatives Initiates Landmark Legislation for Endangered Species Conservation and Protection in Nigeria

    Today, the House of Representatives initiated the initial review of fresh legislation focused on safeguarding and preserving endangered species. The bill, prepared by the Federal Ministry of Environment in Nigeria and advocated by Hon. Terseer Ugbor, Vice Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, aims to strengthen and enhance existing laws for wildlife protection.

    This legislative effort primarily aims to tackle the common problem of illicit wildlife trade in Nigeria. The proposal aims to grant law enforcement agencies expanded investigative powers, such as conducting financial investigations and intelligence-based operations. Additionally, it enhances the jurisdiction of courts to expedite legal actions and asset retrieval related to wildlife, while enforcing accountability for businesses involved. The initiative also emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in combating wildlife trafficking.

    The sponsor of the bill, Hon. Ugbor, expressed his satisfaction with its approval, highlighting the detrimental effects of wildlife trafficking on the environment and the delicate balance of our planet. He emphasized the significance of the bill in fulfilling our responsibility to future generations and preserving Nigeria’s natural treasures. Aligned with global agreements and conventions, the legislation demonstrates Nigeria’s steadfast dedication to fighting against wildlife trafficking and safeguarding endangered animals such as lions, elephants, gorillas, pangolins, and chimpanzees.

    The Africa Nature Investors Foundation (ANI), the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA), and the Wild Africa Fund (WAF), in collaboration with the UK Illegal Wildlife Trade Challenge Fund and the US Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, have played a significant role in addressing the issue of illegal wildlife trade in Nigeria. According to Tunde Morakinyo, ANI’s Executive Director, the approval of the bill is expected to enhance the country’s efforts in fighting against wildlife crime.

    According to Mary Rice, the Executive Director of EIA UK, the implementation of strong laws is important in fighting wildlife trafficking. She urged Nigerian lawmakers to promptly pass this measure. Peter Knights, CEO of WAF, also stressed the importance of this legislation, stating that its swift ratification could position Nigeria as a leader in the region in combating wildlife crime and protecting wildlife throughout Africa. The Endangered Species Conservation and Protection Bill is set to undergo a thorough examination and receive input from both politicians and the public during hearings and future readings, indicating a deliberate effort to ensure its widespread and effective execution.

  • Wetlands

    Wetlands

    Wetlands may not get much attention, but they’re vital for supporting life on Earth. These waterlogged regions, including marshes, swamps, and bogs, are important for ecological stability. These environments support a wide variety of plants and animals. Recognizing the significance of wetlands is important for understanding their contribution to the overall health of our environment. 

    What are wetlands?

    Wetlands are areas of land where the ground is either permanently or seasonally saturated with water. They can include various types of ecosystems, like marshes, swamps, and bogs. Wetlands play crucial roles in supporting diverse plant and animal life, providing habitat for many species, and offering important ecological functions such as water filtration, flood control, and carbon sequestration. Some wetland regions in Nigeria include the Hadejia-Nguru Wetlands in northeastern Nigeria, the Omo Forest Reserve in southwestern Nigeria, the Lake Chad Basin, and the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos State. 

    Wetlands serve as important locations for biodiversity, supporting a variety of flora (referring to all the plant life or vegetation in this region) and fauna (encompassing all the animal life in this region) that have specifically adapted to the wet conditions. The presence of plentiful water and nutrient-rich soils creates the perfect environment for a diverse range of living beings. From amphibians and water birds to a wide array of plant species, wetlands provide a haven for numerous organisms, making a significant contribution to the overall biological richness of our planet.

    Ecological Functions of Wetlands?

    • Water Filtration and Quality: Wetlands are essential for the provision of water purification services as they act as natural filters, effectively eliminating pollutants, sediments, and excess nutrients from water. Through the use of vegetation and soils as sponges, wetlands can absorb and trap harmful substances, preventing them from reaching downstream water bodies. This crucial role not only helps protect aquatic ecosystems but also ensures the availability of clean water for human communities.

     

    • Flood Mitigation and Resilience: Wetlands are essential in reducing the impact of floods on the environment. During times of intense rain or strong storms, wetlands are crucial in absorbing and retaining excess water, thus reducing the risk of flooding in nearby areas. This particular function of wetlands becomes even more important in the face of climate change as the frequency and intensity of these events increase. As a natural defence against floods, wetlands play a significant role in strengthening the resilience of ecosystems and communities.

     

    • Carbon retention:The carbon cycle on a global scale is significantly impacted by wetlands. Due to the presence of waterlogged conditions, the decomposition of organic matter is slowed down, leading to the storage of carbon in wetland soil. This vital process, known as carbon sequestration or retention, plays a crucial role in mitigating the effects of climate change by offsetting the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. As a result, protecting and restoring wetlands should be a top priority in addressing climate change.

     

    • Sustainable Livelihoods: Throughout history, wetlands have been a source of sustenance for human communities, providing a variety of resources. Wetland resources such as fish, waterfowl, and plants have played important roles in traditional activities like fishing and farming. It is important to find a balance between human needs and wetland preservation to maintain the sustainable use of these ecosystems, safeguarding their ecological functions and supporting the livelihoods of local communities.

    The preservation of wetlands is crucial for maintaining the ecological balance of the Earth and ensuring essential benefits for both the environment and human society. It is essential to prioritize the conservation and restoration of these areas and recognize their importance. By safeguarding wetlands, we not only protect biodiversity but also make a valuable contribution to the long-term sustainability of our planet and the well-being of future generations.

  • Do Plants Feel Pain?

    Do Plants Feel Pain?

    The question of whether plants are capable of feeling pain has long been a topic of interest. To keep it short,  plants do not possess the ability to experience pain like animals do, and this is due to their lack of pain receptors, nerves, and a brain, which results in their functioning being fundamentally different from that of animals. Therefore, the act of harvesting plants such as tomatoes or cutting the leaves from the trees of mangoes, cashews, and all the rest cannot be considered a form of torture. So, how exactly do plants react to their surroundings? Let’s delve into that!

    You may or may not be familiar with the sensitive plant that immediately collapses its leaves after being touched or the Venus flytrap with its fast traps. These are some plants that display clear sensory abilities. These abilities can be seen as a way of communicating with the environment and are not a sign of pain but rather serve as a defence mechanism against potential threats, such as herbivores.

    Cellular Sensitivity

    The responsiveness of plant cells to various external stimuli such as light, temperature, and hormones is known as cellular sensitivity. It plays an important role in the regulation of plant growth, development, and adaptation to environmental changes.

    Recent studies have made clear the level of plant sensitivity that allows for responses to specific signals and cues from the surroundings. For example, a mustard plant commonly used in scientific studies has been found to send out electrical signals in response to herbivory. When under attack by caterpillars or aphids, the plant initiates a kind of complex defence mechanism by emitting electrical warnings from leaf to leaf. This mechanism triggers the production of chemical defences, protecting the plant from further damage. While this response reflects a reaction to physical harm, it is important not to equate it to the experience of pain as animals perceive it.

    Plants can respond to different environmental triggers, demonstrating their capacity to perceive and adjust. Whether it is in reaction to sunlight, gravity, wind, or even small insect bites, plants showcase various interactions with their surroundings. It is important to note that these responses are not motivated by a desire to avoid pain but rather are essential for the survival and spreading or dispersion of the plant species.

    Plants, in contrast to animals, do not rely on their ability to feel pain to survive. Their success and failure are determined by their ability to adapt, reproduce, and thrive in various environments. The fact that plants do not experience suffering does not lessen their importance in the ecological system; instead, it showcases the vast array of life on our planet.

    The reason why plants do not experience pain like animals is because they lack pain receptors, nerves, and a brain. Although their reactions to physical stimuli may appear complex, they are driven by survival mechanisms rather than a personal experience of pain. The complex processes of adaptation and sensitivity that plants exhibit highlight the incredible complexity of the natural world and emphasize the importance of acknowledging and comprehending the various ways in which living organisms interact with their surroundings.

  • Nigeria Makes a Brave Stand Against Ivory Trade

    Nigeria Makes a Brave Stand Against Ivory Trade

    In a groundbreaking event held in Abuja, Nigeria took a firm stance against the illicit ivory trade by staging its first ivory-crushing event. Approximately 2.5 tonnes of confiscated elephant tusks and carved ivory were methodically burned in a joint effort by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) and the Elephant Protection Initiative Foundation (EPIF).  This strategic action is part of Nigeria’s multidimensional effort to protect its declining elephant population and combat the illegal wildlife trade.

    The swift action was taken in response to Nigeria’s recent public destruction of four tons of pangolin scales, which highlights the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting animals. The Minister of State for Environment, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, repeated the country’s dedication and called for global cooperation to address the issue of illegal wildlife trafficking. Despite a worldwide ban implemented in 1989, the trade of ivory remains a major threat to the survival of African elephant populations, leading to a drastic decline.

    The latest report on the status of African elephants presents a harsh outlook, as only 400 elephants remain in Nigeria out of an estimated 415,000 on the entire continent. Nigeria, which has a long history of being a major centre for ivory trafficking, has taken proactive measures such as establishing partnerships with other countries, strengthening law enforcement, and increasing public education.

    The National Strategy to Combat Wildlife and Forest Crime is being implemented by the government and monitored by NESREA through the Wildlife Law Enforcement Task Force (WLETF), which is a substantial effort. John Scanlon AO, the CEO of EPIF, highlighted the important role of the ivory crush in putting off illegal profits and sending a strong message against trafficking. However, he underscored the urgent need for new legislation, including a pending bill from a previous congressional session, to effectively tackle wildlife trafficking.

    Nigeria has observed a rise in seizures and verdicts, which include a prison sentence of four years for possessing pangolin scales and elephant tusks illegally. The government is dedicated to stopping the trafficking of wildlife and has ongoing initiatives like the National Elephant Action Plan (NEAP). The NEAP, set to be launched later this year, was collaboratively developed with organizations such as the Wildlife Conservation Society (Nigeria Programme) and EPIF. Its objective is to allocate funds for elephant protection, enhance anti-poaching measures, and tackle the widespread problem of ivory trafficking.

  • The Ecological Significance of Trees

    The Ecological Significance of Trees

    You might be surprised to learn that many species on our planet have endured up to 5,000 years of silence, witnessing the birth and fall of entire civilizations. They are not mythical creatures or ancient figures from forgotten lore; they are simply trees. Join us in this article into the heart of Earth’s landscapes, where arboreal (pertaining to trees) giants like Methuselah stand as living records of our planet’s past. Prepare to discover the secrets of these silent guardians of time as their stories of persistence and strength unfold in the vastness of our natural world.

    As we travel across vast landscapes, certain trees emerge as eternal witnesses, quietly attesting to the enduring fabric of life. Consider Methuselah, mentioned earlier, a Great Basin bristlecone pine in eastern California that proudly displays its 4,853-year-old past through the detailed records contained within its tree rings. This arboreal monster predates the Egyptian pyramids, prompting us to explore the secrets of its incredible longevity.

    In this arboreal drama, Methuselah is not alone. Other old trees have left their imprint on time across our planet’s different terrains. These arboreal wonders, like Prometheus and The Senator, have triumphant and tragic stories to tell, each adding to the larger story of Earth’s ancient guardians.

    The Senator (2012)
    The Senator (2012)

    At the core of these stories is an intriguing question: What gives these trees the power to withstand the passage of time? As we unearth the secrets of their lifespan, we gain insights not only into the complicated interplay of adaptation, chance, and resilience but also into the significant ecological contributions that make these old trees essential to the health and balance of our world.

    So, what is the key to their continued existence? These old trees have survived illnesses, pests, wildfires, and human activities that have killed many of their contemporaries. These amazing trees have evolved sophisticated chemical defences, making them resilient guardians against pests and illnesses. Unlike animals, where ageing frequently results in cell death, these trees have different cellular dynamics that ensure reduced cell death in critical development regions.

    On a larger scale, these trees’ basic yet effective body plan allows for modular development, allowing for the replacement of missing pieces to maintain continued life. Surprisingly, dead wood accounts for up to 95% of the structure of an elderly tree. This seemingly contradictory composition has a purpose: dead wood does not need metabolic activity, which reduces the energy required for maintenance and contributes to the tree’s lifetime. Learn more

    But why is it important for these trees to endure over time? The reason lies in their significant ecological contributions. From anchoring soil with extensive root systems to leading in carbon sequestration (carbon sequestration is the vital process where trees absorb and store carbon dioxide, mitigating climate change and maintaining ecological balance.) and supporting biodiversity, these ancient trees are vital in preserving the delicate balance of Earth’s ecosystems.

    As we learn more about Methuselah, Prometheus, The Senator, and many more arboreal wonders, we get a greater understanding of the delicate interplay of adaptation, chance, and resilience that allows them to survive. These trees are not mere witnesses to time; they play a crucial role in keeping our world healthy and balanced. Coming together to understand, appreciate, and safeguard younger trees becomes a shared mission, ensuring the preservation of the delicate threads of life woven into the fabric of our natural world.

    Picture credits: Future Tree Health, Wikipedia

  • ConservationsNG: A Journey into Earth’s Stewardship

    ConservationsNG: A Journey into Earth’s Stewardship

    You may have noticed, or perhaps it’s already apparent to you, that this website is entirely devoted to the cause of conservation. It’s evident in our articles, and it’s even embedded in our website’s name – ConservationsNG. But let’s take a moment before the year bids us farewell to truly understand what conservation means and unravel the entire concept behind this remarkable site.

    Our home, Earth, is endowed with an abundance of natural resources, including air, minerals, plants, soil, water, and wildlife. Conservation appears as the guardian angel, devoted to the care and protection of these resources, assuring their survival for future generations. This goes beyond basic protection; it entails the delicate effort of conserving the diversity of species, genes, ecosystems, and important environmental services such as nutrient cycling.

    Although the terms conservation and preservation are frequently used interchangeably, they serve distinct functions. Conservationists argue for human use of nature that is sustainable, whether for hunting, logging, or mining. In contrast, preservation functions as a fortress, shielding nature from direct human influence.

    At its core, conservation is a thoughtful interaction between people and nature—an intricate connection designed to appreciate Earth’s beauty for the long term without causing irreversible harm. This unwavering dedication underscores our role as vigilant stewards, entrusted with responsibly managing and utilizing the planet’s resources to protect the purity of our exceptional home.

    Now, let’s dive into the details of conservation, exploring its ins and outs, and grasping why it’s so important. This initial exploration sets the stage for what’s to come. Welcome to ConservationsNG, where the heartbeat of conservation resonates in every article and the call to protect our planet echoes loud and clear.

  • The Elephant’s Ear And Temperature Regulation

    The Elephant’s Ear And Temperature Regulation

    It may come as a surprise to learn that elephants use their ears to control their body temperature. “How?” you may be thinking. “Why?” “It’s amazing!”. I know you’re curious about the answers to these questions. In this article, we’ll look at the whys and hows of elephants utilizing their ears to regulate their body temperature.

    Elephants, the animal kingdom’s giants, have a unique ability to deal with the challenges of harsh temperatures. Consider an elephant on a hot African grassland; its gigantic ears spread like natural sun shields. Those huge flaps aren’t just for show. They are, in fact, an important part of the elephant’s technique for keeping a healthy body temperature.

    But how do they accomplish this? Elephants, unlike humans, do not have a dense network of sweat glands covering their bodies—the secret is hidden in the amazing structure of their ears. Elephant ears are not only big but also remarkably thin, acting as natural fans. This unusual architecture plays an important role in the intricate process of thermoregulation (the ability of an organism to maintain a stable internal body temperature within a certain range despite changes in external conditions.).

    Here are some ways elephants use their ears to regulate their body temperature:

    • Flapping: By flapping their ears, elephants generate a breeze that aids in cooling down their blood supply. The ear’s substantial surface area-to-volume ratio is instrumental in reducing their body temperatures.
    • Dilating blood vessels: By widening their blood vessels, elephants enhance blood flow to their ears, promoting increased cooling.
    • In the heat, elephants cool down through a process called “flooding with blood.” They boost blood flow to their ears, using the extensive vessels in these large flaps as a natural radiator to release excess body heat. This clever adaptation showcases their ability to thrive in diverse climates.
    • Fanning: Elephants can fan their ears to increase airflow over their skin and lose heat faster.
    • Elephants occasionally spray water on their ears to cool down the blood in the vessels before it circulates throughout the rest of their bodies.

    So, in answer to your question of “How?”—elephants use their ears as natural radiators, employing a combination of blood circulation and increased surface area to release heat effectively.

    Now, let’s address the “why.” Why do elephants need to regulate their temperature in the first place? Much like humans, elephants need to keep their bodies within a specific temperature range for their well-being. The ability to dissipate excess heat is crucial for their survival, especially in the scorching heat of the African savannah or the humid jungles of Asia.

    Understanding the complexities of how elephants utilize their ears to regulate their body temperature goes beyond simply curiosity. In a world where climate change is having a worldwide influence on ecosystems, recognizing and protecting these adaptive processes is critical. Take a minute the next time you see an elephant to admire its ears—not only as appendages (the part that extends from the main body of an organism) but as marvels of survival, expertly honed by a creator to traverse the obstacles of their different habitats.

     

     

     

  • Vital Guardians: Understanding the Role of Venomous Snakes in Our Ecosystem

    Vital Guardians: Understanding the Role of Venomous Snakes in Our Ecosystem

    Have you ever pondered the hidden world of venomous snakes? Join us in this series as we reveal the mysteries of these misunderstood creatures. From deserts to rainforests, each snake is a unique marvel, not just predators but nature’s own pest control. They play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of life and ensuring harmony in our ecosystems. Let’s dig into why these snake guardians are important in our complex natural world.

    We’re going to uncover each snake based on the manner they were arranged in the previous article, we’d look at their habitat, behaviour, feeding habits and ecological importance

    Puff Adder (bitis arietans)

    Habitat: Resides in lots of different places, from hot deserts to dense rainforests.

    Behaviour: Solitary and nocturnal [prefers to be alone and active during the night.], puff adders are skilled ambush predators using chemical and heat signals for prey detection. Learn more

    Feeding Habit: Feeds on various prey, mainly keeping rodent populations in check, and adapts its dining style depending on the size of its meal.

    Ecological Importance: Acts as nature’s pest control, preventing overpopulation of pests that could impact ecosystems and agriculture.

    Forest Cobra (naja melanoleuca)

    Habitat: Adaptable to various altitudes, found in forests, savannahs, and near water sources.

    Behaviour: Nocturnal, arboreal [active during the night and loves hanging out in trees], and a secondary consumer that helps control rodent populations.

    Feeding Habit: Contributes to the balance by preying on potential crop pests and disease vectors.

    Ecological Importance: Venom is used in cancer and protein research while aiding in controlling rodent-borne diseases.

    African Bush Viper (atheris squamigera)

    Habitat: Inhabits tropical forests and dense vegetation areas with abundant small prey.

    Behaviour: Nocturnal [active at night], ambush predator with rapid striking abilities.

    Feeding Habit: Contributes to pest control by preying on small rodents.

    Ecological Importance: Farmed for venom, used in antivenom production and medical research.

    Black-necked Spitting Cobra (naja nigricollis)

    Habitat: Frequently found in the savanna and semi-desert areas of Africa.

    Behaviour: Solitary [prefers being alone], adaptable to both nocturnal and diurnal [can be active both during the day and night] activity, excels in tree climbing.

    Feeding Habit: Known for venom projection and efficient pest control abilities.

    Ecological Importance: Contributes to regulating pest populations, especially in agricultural areas.

    Egyptian Cobra (naja haje)

    Habitat: Inhabits diverse landscapes, from open fields to areas with slight moisture. Frequently found in proximity to human settlements where rodents and domestic fowl attract them.

    Behaviour: Primarily ground-dwelling, active during twilight [the time of day when the sun is below the horizon but its rays illuminate the sky roughly 30 minutes before sunrise and 30 minutes after sunset], occasionally engaging in sunbathing. Displays a preference for secure shelters such as abandoned burrows and termite mounds.

    Feeding Habit: Actively forages [actively looking, hunting, or gathering food to meet its dietary needs], sometimes venturing into human spaces, particularly targeting domestic fowl. Displays a preference for toads but also consumes a variety of prey including small animals, birds, eggs, lizards, and other snakes.

    Ecological Importance: Plays a crucial role in pest control around human habitats. Exhibits defensive behaviour when threatened. Contributes to ecological balance by controlling potential pest populations, showcasing adaptability to diverse ecosystems.

    Boomslang (dispholidus typus)

    Habitat: Found in various ecosystems, from karoo scrubs [arid conditions, low rainfall, and unique vegetation adapted to semi-desert environments] to lowland forests, preferring moist areas.

    Behaviour: Solitary, diurnal, arboreal [loves being alone, active during the day and loves and lives on trees], and a skilled ambush predator.

    Feeding Habit: Carnivorous, preying on small arboreal [tree-living animals] lizards and frogs.

    Ecological Importance: Provides food for various birds, including falcons and eagles. Learn more

    Spotted Night Adder (causus maculatus)

    Habitat: inhabits the forests, savannahs, and semi-deserts, active during all times of the day.

    Behaviour: Slow-moving, strikes quickly, and feeds mainly on frogs.

    Feeding Habit: Specializes in consuming frogs and toads.

    Ecological Importance: Plays a role in maintaining balance within its habitat.

    Venomous snakes, from puff adders to boomslangs, play indispensable roles in our ecosystems. They serve as nature’s pest controllers, maintaining the balance of species and preventing the overpopulation of pests that could disrupt ecosystems and agriculture. Understanding their habitats, behaviours, and feeding habits sheds light on the complex pattern of our natural world, where these serpents are not just inhabitants but vital guardians of the delicate balance that sustains life.

    Photo credit (American Tarantula & Animals)

  • Nigeria’s Most Potent Snakes: An In-depth Introduction

    Nigeria’s Most Potent Snakes: An In-depth Introduction

    We all have a thing or two about snakes that give us the shivers. But it’s time to separate fact from fiction. Nigeria is home to a bunch of snakes, some of them pretty potent, but they’re not the monsters they’re made out to be. In this article, we’re going to introduce you to some of Nigeria’s most venomous snakes, in a way that’s easy to understand. Say goodbye to unnecessary fear, and let’s get to know these creatures for what they really are. Ready to dive in?

    But hold on a second! When we talk about why we’re not fans of snakes, we tend to say, ‘Snakes are poisonous.’ But is that really true? Actually, no. They’re not poisonous. They’re dangerous, sure, but the correct term is ‘venomous.’ So, snakes are venomous, not poisonous. Now, let’s take a closer look at seven of the most venomous snakes in Nigeria. We’ll cover their key features and how to recognize them.

     Puff Adder (bitis arietans)

    Puff Adder

    The Puff Adder, with its robust body and distinctive slit-like eyes, is a true camouflage artist amidst Nigeria’s grasslands and scrub. Measuring between 3 to 5 feet, it’s characterized by the classic viper traits: a triangular head, narrow neck, and a short tail. Recognizing a Puff Adder is made easier by its broad, triangular head and a pattern of dark, chevron-shaped markings along its back.

    Forest Cobra (naja melanoleuca)

    forest cobra

    Allow us to introduce the diurnal (diurnal species are primarily active during daylight hours and rest or sleep during the night) Forest Cobra –  an agile climber and a daytime hunter. With its glossy black body and striking white-edged scales around the mouth, this cobra is both swift and keen-eyed. It’s known to scale trees up to a staggering 33 feet high, showcasing its remarkable climbing abilities. Identifying a Forest Cobra can be done by its sleek black body paired with a cream-coloured underbelly, along with its distinct white-edged mouth scales.

    African Bush Viper (atheris squamigera)

    As the night descends, the African Bush Viper awakens for its nocturnal (Night-active) hunt. These stealthy ambush predators strike from upside-down perches, boasting a broad, flat head and an impressive mouth gape. Females, typically larger, can reach up to 24 inches in length. Identifying an African Bush Viper is aided by its distinct triangular head, large mouth, and unique colouration – often featuring shades of green with dorsal scales that form a rough, keeled texture.

    Black-necked Spitting Cobra (naja nigricollis)

    black neck spitting viper

    Moderately sized, the Black-necked Spitting Cobra varies in colour but shares a fondness for small rodents. What truly sets it apart is its ability to eject venom up to an astonishing 23 feet, making it a formidable force when provoked. Recognizing a Black-necked Spitting Cobra can be done by its size, typically 3.9 to 7.2 feet in length, along with its colouration – often featuring a dark body with a distinct pattern of light bands and spots.

    Egyptian Cobra (naja haje)

    Egyptian cobra

    Sporting a large, hood-capable head, the Egyptian Cobra feasts on toads, small mammals, birds, and more. Its sturdy body and cylindrical shape are complemented by a moderately broad snout, distinguishing it from its cobra counterparts. Identifying an Egyptian Cobra is facilitated by its sleek, solid-coloured body, typically in shades of black or brown, along with the distinctive hood that it can expand when threatened.

    Boomslang (dispholidus typus)

    boomslang

    The Boomslang is a slender snake with a distinctive blunt head and captivating large eyes. These serpents can grow up to 2 meters, and their mesmerizing gaze is a hallmark of their species. Recognizing a Boomslang is aided by its slender, elongated body, along with large, forward-facing eyes and a distinct, broad head.

    Spotted Night Adder (causus maculatus)

    spotted night adder

    Compact yet powerful, the Spotted Night Adder boasts a stout, short-tailed frame. With a moderate-sized head and an obtuse canthus, this snake reaches a maximum length of about 0.75 meters. Identifying a Spotted Night Adder is facilitated by its small size, distinct spotted pattern along its back, and short, stubby tail.

    While these seven venomous snakes may instil fear in many, it’s crucial to recognize their vital roles in their respective ecosystems. Understanding their traits and behaviours enables us to coexist safely with these captivating creatures. So, let’s celebrate the diversity of Nigeria’s snake population and continue to learn about these incredible reptiles.

    *Photo credits (Wikipedia, A-Z Animals)

    Let’s stay tuned for the next series of this article titled “Vital Guardians: Understanding the Role of Venomous Snakes in our Ecosystem”.