Crotalus unicolor

The Aruba rattlesnake (Crotalus unicolor) is endemic to the island of Aruba, which means that this species is found nowhere else in the world. It is therefore very sensitive to the loss of natural habitat. In recent years the Aruba rattlesnake has also come under severe pressure due to competition with invasive species such as the Boa constrictor.

Currently, the habitat of this species has been declared a national park. However, a long-term breeding project will be needed for the reintroduction of these snakes to this habitat. For this a collaboration between the Arikok National Park and the Toledo Zoo in Ohio has been set up.

We are proud to announce that the donation from the Herpetofauna Foundation has been used, among other things, for the development of an educational display and for housing facilities in the central visitor area of the Arikok National Park. In this room, the Aruba rattlesnake is shown, and an explanation is given about the importance of the survival of this special animal. The display gives information about the effect of invasive species on the natural flora and fauna as well. Again, as with many other projects, education is the key to get the local people involved.

A few years ago the Dutch royal family paid a visit to the Arikik National Park. Here they admired the accommodations that were partly made possible by the Herpetofauna Foundation.