Temporal Range Dynamics of the Lataste’s Viper (Vipera latastei Boscá, 1878) in Doñana (Spain): Insights into Anthropogenically Driven Factors

Abstract

Doñana (Spain) is a region of notable biodiversity richness, threatened by landscape transformation and climate change. Lataste’s viper (Vipera latastei), a snake endemic to the Iberian Peninsula, has one of the few remaining coastal populations in Doñana, which is likely to be declining. Our study shows that the viper’s suitable habitat has been shrinking over time toward the coastal area. By analyzing data from the past 50 years, we found that rising temperatures and habitat changes have led to a sharp decline in suitable environments for the species. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted conservation measures to protect this threatened snake.