The Gila monster, a colorful desert lizard and Utah’s state reptile, resides mainly in the southwest corner of the state, particularly near St. George. However, projections for the end of the century indicate that this species could expand its habitat significantly, potentially reaching the Wasatch Front. This information comes from recent research by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) that was published in October.
According to Michelle Jeffries, a USGS biologist involved in the study, the Gila monster’s climate niche could increase by as much as 60% across Utah. This expansion may apply not only to the Gila monster but to most of the 96 reptile species studied within the state. The research focused on the climate niches of 130 lizards and snakes from the western U.S., Canada, and Mexico, analyzing optimal seasonal temperatures and precipitation patterns necessary for each species’ survival.
Following a likely climate scenario characterized by persistent greenhouse gas emissions and rising temperatures, the findings suggest that the majority of reptiles observed could broaden their range by the years 2070-2100.
Notably, several species are anticipated to have the most substantial increase in their potential habitat in Utah. Some of these reptiles include the Smith’s black-headed snake, the eastern collared lizard, and the coachwhip snake. Besides existing species, Utah could also see the arrival of new reptiles, with 12 lizards and 15 snakes projected to migrate into the area. Among these newcomers are the Texas horned lizard, the Mojave fringe-toed lizard, and the Texas banded gecko.
Conversely, not all species will fare well in this potential upheaval. Certain reptiles, such as the North American racer snake and the pygmy short-horned lizard, might find their habitats retreating in response to climatic changes.
Despite the projections, how these shifts will play out in reality remains a topic of speculation. Jeffries noted that uncertainty surrounds the dynamics following the migration of reptile species. As previously unacquainted reptiles come into contact with one another, factors such as predator-prey relationships and competition for resources may dramatically evolve.
“It’s possible in 50 years from now, their ranges might overlap for the first time ever, or the first time in a very long time,” stated Jeffries, highlighting the unknown consequences of these changes.
Furthermore, the impact of migrating reptiles could extend to their original habitats as well. As some species leave, those remaining might either experience a surplus of available food due to reduced competition or find fewer available resources if the departing reptiles were primary food sources.
Alyssa Hoekstra, the native herpetology coordinator with the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, expressed surprise at the anticipated expansion of the Gila monster’s habitat, acknowledging both excitement and cautious optimism regarding these shifts. However, she cautioned that residents in areas such as Moab or Tooele should not expect an influx of Gila monsters at their doorsteps anytime soon.
Gila monsters tend to spend most of their time in burrows or beneath rocks, leading to concerns about their ability to naturally traverse hundreds of miles of new territory. Hoekstra estimated the likelihood of spontaneous range expansion as low, though she acknowledged the unpredictability of nature.
Jeffries emphasized a crucial caveat regarding species migration: even if climate conditions in a new area appear suitable, physical barriers might hinder reptiles from reaching these territories. Natural obstacles such as deep canyons and towering mountains, along with human-created barriers like highways, could impede their movement.
“Ecological space does seem to be opening up for these species to move into,” she said. “We just have to help them get there, potentially.”
Wildlife agencies might consider interventions such as creating wildlife corridors and building road crossings to facilitate reptile migration. Additionally, states may collaborate on efforts to physically move reptiles from areas losing their climate niches to newly gained habitats in Utah, although such initiatives may be decades away.
Hoekstra warned that relocation efforts carry inherent risks. Though discussions about proactive measures are promising, the practicality of relocating reptiles to new habitats raises uncertainties regarding their adaptation to unfamiliar conditions.
Before implementing any interventions, it is essential for scientists to gather a comprehensive understanding of existing reptile populations and their distributions across Utah. Finite resources at state agencies often hinder exhaustive surveys and detailed studies, leaving scientists somewhat in the dark about the reptiles that currently inhabit the region.
“The more information we have, the better we feel about our decisions,” Hoekstra remarked, underscoring the importance of robust data.
Datasets such as the USGS study provide invaluable insight that helps researchers prioritize their inquiries and achieve a clearer picture of what the future may hold for Utah’s reptiles as climate conditions continue to evolve.
image source from：kuer
