S-s-serious s-s-s-nake facts you should know

Conservationist, resident, and well-known author Jonathan Leeming gave a few important notes residents should bear in mind when encountering a snake.

“There is no doubt that snake bite is the most impactful of all types of envenomation in Southern Africa and many other areas of the world. However, I don’t believe we should be afraid of a snake, but rather we should learn to be more respectful and tolerant,” said Jonathan.

He continued by explaining there are around 172 species of snakes in South Africa which can be found in every habitat that can stretch as far as the sea. The identification of these slithering reptiles is, however, difficult when they are moving away or not completely visible.

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A few characteristics one should take note of when coming across a snake are:

• Size and shape
Some snakes have a thick body and a distinct head, while others are slender.

• Colouration and anatomy
Although the colouration of a snake may vary throughout its distribution, it can be used as an identification characteristic. The anatomy shape and texture of the scales also help in identification. Some snakes have unique anatomical features.

• Behaviour
When threatened, some snakes make a hissing noise, rear up and spread a hood, spit venom, or simply just play dead. The way a snake moves can also be characteristic.

• Distribution and shelter
Snakes are not randomly distributed throughout the environment, they inhabit distinct areas that provide for their habitat requirements. Some snakes can be found in trees, on the ground, in rocky outcrops, or near water.

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Jonathan further advised people to visit a reptile park or attend a course or demonstration to become familiar with the snakes that can commonly be encountered in your specific area.

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He said snakes do everything they can to avoid human interaction or conflict. There are, however, many misconceptions about these animals, many of which are due to a lack of knowledge. He noted when a snake does encounter a human it would hiss, spread their hood, remain still, or get away as fast as possible. He noted they only use their venom as a last resort. He then explained the importance of snakes and the value they hold to humanity. Snakes support the ecosystem humans rely on for our existence.

“The direct value of snakes, saves or improves the life of over one billion people worldwide, especially those living in developed countries.”

He explained snakes as well as their venom are being used in treatments for heart failure, kidney disease, arthritis, and diabetes and preventing both strokes and blood clots. He noted an example, medication meant to treat high blood pressure is based upon an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. This is derived from the venom of the Arrowhead Pit Viper.

He continued to note the conservation of snakes, according to the World Wildlife Fund’s Living Planet Report of 2020 the influence of humans on the populations of mammals, birds, fish, amphibians and reptiles has decreased by 68% since 1970.

“Today has never been a more important period in human history when we need to actively protect the environment.”

He added there are three layers of legislation aimed at protecting the snake population in the country from declining. The Threatened or Protected Species Act is national legislation that includes both the African Python and the Gaboon Adder. Provincial legislation dictates the necessity of permits for collecting, transporting, and keeping snakes as well as the inter-province import and export of indigenous species of snakes. This however depends on the province.

Jonathan continued to say the reason for legislative protection is due to the negative impact on animal and plant populations that comes from the poaching from poaching for the pet trade along with the destruction of their habitat. He advised any person who wants to organise a demonstration on their premises to ensure the snake handler has the necessary permits for all the indigenous snakes.

He mentioned conservation efforts that can be done by residents:

• Habitat conservation
• Having your say in development applications (habitat destruction)
• Not falling foul of ignorance and killing snakes intentionally
• Avoiding the use of insecticides and rodenticides
• Keep domestic cats indoors at all times
• Do not buy wild animals or support the pet trade
• Be mindful when driving a car
• If you see anyone collecting snakes (or other animals and plants), immediately report them to the local authorities

“These conservation efforts not only assist snakes but also other animals and plants.”

He explained the venom of snakes has evolved as a chemical weapon against biological processes that are dictated by the relationship between predator and prey. He added for first aid when a person gets bitten, the venom has been divided into three groups neurotoxic, cytotoxic, and haemotoxic. He noted the groups only indicate where the symptoms are and not what they will be. Understanding what they use their venom for helps people better understand the effects on human physiology.

The different types of venom:

• Defensive venoms
These are fast-acting venoms that tend to be generalised in their application because they have to apply to a wide variety of predators. Defensive venoms are designed to cause instant and highly uncomfortable symptoms (often immediate localised pain) that will deter a predator or threat. Venom is rarely used as a primary defence mechanism.

• Prey capture venoms
Predatory venomous animals are often designed towards a targeted prey animal. Frogs and toads are favourite prey items for a Night Adder, and accordingly, their venom is particularly effective against these kinds of prey. Mamba venom is effective against mammalian prey. However, these targeted venoms may be ineffective or prompt an alternative response in non-target animals.

“It is by no chance that many of Southern Africa’s medically significant snakes prey upon mammalian prey, such as rats and mice. By design, we share the same physiology as these prey items and experience the same catastrophic system failures when these venoms are introduced to our physiology,” mentioned Jonathan.

He concluded, “When we look at the hard facts and realise that your packet of cigarettes, a bottle of whisky, and the car you drive pose a far greater threat than any snake, then we realise how we have misinterpreted these animals.”