We discovered lethal new fungal diseases in wild Australian reptiles. It's time to act fast
>When a coastal carpet python was brought into a wildlife hospital in South East Queensland in August 2024, vets were confronted with something they didn't recognize. The python had damaged scales, crusted lesions across its body and a mysterious fungal infection that defied explanation.
>When the results from skin tests came back, they revealed snake fungal disease, caused by Ophidiomyces ophidiicola, an emerging fungal pathogen linked to snake declines overseas. This was the first confirmed report in free-ranging wild Australian snakes.
>What can you do?
>Citizen scientists, wildlife enthusiasts and members of the community can all contribute.
>By recognizing signs of illness, reporting sick animals and practicing responsible behavior around wildlife, Australians can help protect our reptiles from these emerging fungal threats.
>Report sick reptiles to track disease spread
>If you see a sick reptile, keep your distance and look for brown or yellow crusty skin lesions, abnormal shedding, swelling, wounds that don't heal or unusually lethargic behavior.
>If it's safe, take clear photos and record the location.
>Contact your local wildlife rescue group, wildlife hospital or vet.
>Submit sightings to local wildlife authorities or citizen science platforms such as iNaturalist.
>Early reporting helps researchers track and manage disease spread.
>Never release pet reptiles
>Captive reptiles can carry pathogens which can be harmless to them but devastating to wild populations.
>If you can't care for your pet reptile, contact an animal rescue organization or registered rehoming group. Never release pets into the wild.
>Observe responsibly
>Avoid handling wild reptiles. In many regions, this requires specific permits.
>If you are an authorized and trained handler and must move an animal, ensure your hands and equipment are cleaned between animals and locations.