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The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is asking the public to report rainbow snake sightings in the state

The species is secretive, aquatic, and often mistaken for dangerous reptiles, but it is harmless.

Declines in the snake's population are tied to the loss of its preferred dietary needs (American eels), habitat loss, and fungal disease threats

A rare reptile is catching the attention of Florida wildlife officials.

On Monday, Aug. 19, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) urged the public to report any sightings of the rainbow snake — an elusive, nonvenomous species whose numbers have dwindled in recent decades.

The semi-aquatic reptile, also known as Farancia erytrogramma, is striking in appearance, having iridescent black or vi

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