Basic Snake Research
(Do your homework)
It is a good idea to do some basic snake research if you're living in an area where there are snakes. There is no need to become a snake expert, but by familiarizing yourself with the different snake species in your area you can better assess the situation should you encounter a snake.
This can be a daunting task if you live somewhere in the tropics where there can be several hundred species of snakes. If this is the case, then simply familiarize yourself with those species that are medically significant to humans. There are many venomous snakes, but only a small percentage of these snakes are potentially life threatening.
For example, in South Africa there are 169 species of snakes of which only 14 are considered life threatening. This means that only 8.2% are considered dangerous to man.
A little knowledge can go a long way
Many people won't visit or travel to areas where there are snakes, yet we live in a society where our next door neighbour could be a serial killer, rapist, or even a paedophile.
Snakes can be correctly identified by doing a little homework and some basic snake research. The two-legged variety however are not so easily identifiable and far more dangerous.
There are countless books and illustrated guides on snakes. Some offer extensive information on the subject whilst others target specific areas. If you are a keen snake enthusiast then you probably already have several books on the subject.
If however you have an irrational fear of snakes then a simple field guide to the snakes of your specific area would suffice.These guides often give detailed information on the types of snakes, geographical distribution, basic behaviour, and biolgy of snakes for a specific area.
Here are a few examples:
Snakes of North America
Snakes of Texas.
Snakes of India.
Snakes of Virginia
Snakes of Southern Africa
Snakes of Europe.
These are but a few examples of books that are readily available online. Your local library may also contain a wealth of information on the local fauna.
Part of your basic snake research and another good idea is to get in touch with your local herpetological association. Simply phone your local wildlife department, conservation body, or SPCA and they should point you in the right direction. The herpetological association will have a list of credible snake-catchers that will assist you with any snake or reptile related emergency. It is important to note that should there be no such organisation, then your local fire department or police station may be able to help you.
Another tip and useful part of your basic snake research is to find out if anyone in your neighbourhood keeps snakes in captivity. Should this be the case, then try to obtain their telephone number. Should you ever have a snake emergency you can simply ask for their assisstance. Some may charge a small fee for the service, others may not. If you ever make use of this service offering a donation, or some tea and cookies is recommended.
These guys are after all doing you a great favour, and you may need to call them again in the future.
A word of advice though, some "snakey" people (who am I kidding), most "snakey" people may appear weird and disfunctional. Relax, this is only superficial, they hardly ever bite!
So, organise yourself and do your basic snake research homework.
Your "to do" list
* Familiarize yourself with the snake species in your area. Buy a book on the snakes of your area, or get one from your local library, or friends.
* Contact your local herpetological association. Get phone numbers for credible snake-catchers. Place the list of numbers where they are easily accessible (eg notice board or fridge). It is a good idea to save some of the numbers to your cellphone.
*Befriend the local snake guy.....Don't forget the tea and cookies.
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