New Zealand the only snake-free country #factsnews #shorts

New Zealand is the world's only snake-free country. This is because snakes never evolved in New Zealand, and no snakes ever made their way across the ocean to make the islands their home. Neighbouring Australia is full with snakes, both poisonous and non-venomous, yet none of them have crossed to New Zealand. So, no wild snakes in New Zealand, but what about pets or zoo snakes? Unfortunately for snake enthusiasts in New Zealand, the importation of snakes into the country for any reason is prohibited. Anyone found attempting to transport snakes into New Zealand faces heavy fines and maybe jail terms. If you reside in New Zealand and need to see a snake, head across to Australia—they have many. You may wonder why New Zealanders do not want snakes in their country. The answer is that introducing snakes into an ecosystem that had previously been snake-free would have severe environmental implications. Because New Zealand's native animals never developed to deal with snakes, even a single snake can have a significant influence on native wildlife populations. This would set off a chain reaction, destroying much of New Zealand's natural beauty, which no one wants.