Wild Snakes Show Fungal and Parasitic Infections
A study of 509 snakes across the southeastern United States found fungal and parasitic infections linked to poorer body condition.
Updated on Nov. 1, 2026 in Reptiles
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Researchers examined 509 snakes representing 29 species from May 2022 to May 2024 and detected the fungus Ophidiomyces ophidiicola in 16.1% of tested snakes. Fungal and parasitic infections were associated with poorer nutritional condition in the snakes studied.
Why it matters
The findings show that pathogens are present in free-ranging snake populations across the southeastern United States, with many snakes carrying more than one infection. Understanding these infections may help clarify threats to wild snake populations.
The study tested 509 snakes across 29 species, with the fungus found in 82 of 508 samples and the parasite in 37 of 292 Florida samples. Long-term effects on snake populations remain unknown.
The players
Ophidiomyces ophidiicola
A fungus that causes skin disease in snakes and was detected in 16.1% of the snakes tested in this study.
Raillietiella orientalis
A parasite that was detected in 12.7% of Florida snakes tested and is believed to have been introduced into the region.
The details
Researchers captured snakes through visual searches, road surveys, cover boards, and minnow traps, and collected skin, mouth, and cloacal swabs along with blood and fecal samples where possible. Skin lesions appeared in 45.9% of examined snakes, and pygmy rattlesnakes showed a higher likelihood of fungal detection than several other species.
Timeline
May 2022 to May 2024: Free-ranging snakes were examined at Florida and South Carolina wetland sites.
2021 to 2024: Diagnostic cases were submitted from several states, including Louisiana and Tennessee.
Health Landscape
The parasite Raillietiella orientalis is believed to have been introduced into South Florida, and this study extends its documented presence in wild snakes into the broader region. Together, the fungal and parasitic findings add to the picture of how pathogens circulate through free-ranging snake populations.
Snake owners and wildlife observers may find the study's findings on skin lesions and infections useful for recognizing signs of illness in reptiles. The research is early-stage, and no specific handling or care changes have been established from these results.
The takeaway
Skin lesions and multiple infections were common among the wild snakes studied, which points to the value of monitoring reptile health in the field. Researchers emphasize that more study is needed to understand the long-term impact on populations.
Further reading
For more on the animals in this study, explore our Reptiles coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Times of India.
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