Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
THE Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) has urged people to stop indiscriminately killing snakes and said the reptiles are vital to maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity.
The authority also warned that human-snake encounters are likely to increase as settlements expand into natural habitats.
Commemorating World Snake Day on Thursday, ZimParks said the annual observance was meant to raise awareness of the ecological importance of snakes, promote public safety and encourage peaceful co-existence between people and wildlife.
“World Snake Day is observed annually on July 16 to raise awareness of the ecological importance of snakes, promote public safety, and encourage peaceful coexistence between people and wildlife,” it said.
Snakes play a critical role in controlling rodent populations, thereby supporting agriculture, public health and the stability of ecosystems.
“Snakes are an important part of Zimbabwe’s biodiversity.
“They help maintain ecological balance by controlling populations of rodents and other small animals, thereby supporting agriculture, public health and the stability of natural ecosystems. Their presence in the environment is often an indicator of healthy habitats and functioning food chains.”
Zimbabwe is home to a diverse range of snake species and the majority are non-venomous and generally avoided human contact.
Some venomous species could pose a danger when disturbed or accidentally encountered in homes, fields, schools, workplaces and recreational areas.
“As temperatures rise, habitats change and human activities expand into natural areas, encounters between people and snakes may increase, making awareness and preparedness essential,” said the authority.
The people are implored not to kill snakes but to keep a safe distance and seek assistance from trained wildlife personnel or relevant authorities.
“On this World Snake Day, the Authority urges members of the public not to kill snakes indiscriminately. Instead, people should keep a safe distance, avoid attempting to handle or provoke snakes and contact trained wildlife personnel, local authorities, or emergency services for assistance where necessary,” said the authority.
Communities are urged to minimise the likelihood of snake encounters by clearing debris around homes, sealing openings in buildings, storing food securely and controlling rodent populations.
“In the event of a snakebite, the public is advised to remain calm, limit movement, remove tight clothing or jewellery near the bite area, and seek medical attention immediately. “Harmful practices such as cutting the wound, sucking out venom, applying tight tourniquets, or using unverified traditional remedies should be avoided, as they can worsen injury and delay proper treatment.”
