The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Notice of Inquiry (NOI) regarding Boa, Python, and Eunectes constrictors generated more than 1,300 responses from reptile retailers, importers, online businesses, herp societies, hobbyists, and organizations, who voiced their opinions and findings.
USFWS announced the NOI in the Jan. 31 issue of the Federal Register to better understand the potential environmental impacts of released pet snakes, accepting public comments through April 30. Many responses addressed the possibility of adding the three constrictor genera to the list of injurious wildlife under the Lacey Act, which would prohibit or severely limit their importation and transportation. Although some respondents, like the National Environmental Coalition on Invasive Species, supported the listing, most letters reviewed by REPTILES opposed it. The Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council argued that these species do not pose a national-level threat, noting only two large constrictor subspecies have established feral populations in Southern Florida. PIJAC estimated 5,100 retailers and 2,000 to 5,000 hobbyists sell or breed these snakes, warning that a Lacey Act listing could cause significant economic losses without reducing feral populations. Steve Olson of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums echoed that the issue is not national but a Florida-specific matter, stating that listing could disrupt species-conservation programs through permitting delays. Hobbyists, such as Maryland’s Nor Eldridge, also responded, emphasizing the reptile community’s commitment to stopping invasive species spread and wanting to be seen as part of the solution.
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