Snakes are vital to nature, so why do so many people fear them?

In this article, I intend to challenge my own fear of snakes by finding out why and how they exist, the different types of snakes, and the psychology behind my and many others fear of this reptile. I hope that many others will, like me, see snakes differently by the end of our journey. The layout below is to make it straightforward to identify the facts and return to them should there be a desire at a later time.

The evolution of snakes is a fascinating journey spanning millions of years, marked by remarkable adaptations that have allowed these creatures to thrive in various ecosystems worldwide. To understand the wonder of snakes, and their essential role in balancing nature, one must track their evolution. The following is an easy to follow guide to the evolution of snakes.

1. Origins and Early Evolution (Early Cretaceous, around 130-100 million years ago):
   • Snakes are believed to have evolved from lizard ancestors during the Mesozoic Era, specifically during the Early Cretaceous period.
   • The earliest known snake fossils date back to around 130 million years ago, with primitive forms such as the genus Eophis found in Europe and North America.
   • These early snakes retained some lizard-like features, such as small limbs and a distinct skull structure.
2. Adaptations to a Burrowing Lifestyle:
   • One of the key adaptations in early snake evolution was the transition to a burrowing lifestyle.
   • Limbs became reduced or lost entirely, allowing snakes to move efficiently through narrow tunnels and underground burrows.
   • The elongation of the body and development of specialised scales facilitated streamlined movement in confined spaces.
3. Diversification and Radiation (Late Cretaceous to Paleogene, around 100-50 million years ago):
   • During the Late Cretaceous and Paleogene periods, snakes underwent a significant diversification and radiation, leading to the emergence of various lineages and ecological adaptations.
   • Fossil evidence indicates the presence of diverse snake species occupying different habitats, including terrestrial, arboreal, aquatic, and fossorial environments.
   • This period saw the evolution of a wide range of feeding strategies, including constricting, venomous, and non-venomous species.
4. Evolution of Venom (Late Cretaceous to Paleogene):
   • The evolution of venom in snakes is thought to have occurred gradually over millions of years.
   • Early snakes likely possessed rudimentary venom delivery systems, with glands that secreted toxins for subduing prey.
   • Through natural selection, venom became increasingly specialised, leading to the development of sophisticated venom delivery mechanisms, such as hollow fangs and venom glands.
5. Global Dispersal and Adaptation (Cenozoic Era, around 66 million years ago to present):
   • Snakes continued to diversify and adapt to various ecological niches throughout the Cenozoic Era.
   • The breakup of continental landmasses allowed for the dispersal of snake species to different regions worldwide.
   • This period saw the evolution of iconic snake families, such as the boas, pythons, vipers, and colubrids, each exhibiting unique adaptations and behaviors.
6. Modern Diversity and Conservation Challenges:
   • Today, snakes are one of the most diverse groups of reptiles, with over 3,000 known species inhabiting diverse ecosystems across the globe.
   • However, snakes face numerous conservation challenges, including habitat loss, fragmentation, climate change, and persecution by humans due to misconceptions and fear.
   • Conservation efforts are crucial for protecting snake biodiversity and ensuring the survival of these ecologically important predators.

The evolution of snakes is a testament to the remarkable adaptive capabilities of these reptiles. From their humble beginnings as lizard-like ancestors to their current diversity and ecological significance, snakes have undergone a fascinating evolutionary journey shaped by environmental pressures and selective forces. Understanding the evolutionary history of snakes provides valuable insights into their biology, behaviour, and conservation needs.

The distinction between venomous and constrictor snakes primarily relates to their feeding strategies and evolutionary adaptations to capture and subdue prey. Here’s why some snakes are venomous while others are constrictors:

1. Venomous Snakes:
   • Adaptation for Subduing Prey: Venomous snakes have evolved specialised venom glands and delivery systems to inject toxins into their prey.
   • Efficient Predation: Venom allows snakes to quickly immobilize and incapacitate their prey, making it easier to capture and consume.
   • Diverse Venom Types: Venom composition varies among species, with some containing neurotoxic compounds that target the nervous system, while others have hemotoxic or cytotoxic properties affecting blood cells or tissues.
   • Selective Advantage: Venomous snakes have a selective advantage in hunting a wide range of prey, including animals larger than themselves, by delivering venom through specialized fangs.
2. Constrictor Snakes:
   • Mechanical Subjugation: Constrictor snakes lack venom but possess powerful muscular bodies and specialised hunting techniques for overpowering prey.
   • Suffocation Strategy: Constrictors use their bodies to wrap around prey and apply pressure, leading to asphyxiation and death by suffocation.
   • Efficiency in Consumption: By immobilizing prey without causing external injuries, constrictors minimise the risk of injury to themselves while consuming relatively large prey items.
   • Prevalence in Certain Environments: Constrictor snakes are more common in environments where large-bodied prey, such as rodents or birds, are abundant, as they are well-suited for capturing and consuming such prey.

Factors Influencing Adaptations:

• Ecological Niches: The feeding strategies of snakes are often influenced by their ecological niches and the availability of prey in their habitats.
• Evolutionary History: The evolutionary history and selective pressures in different environments have shaped the feeding behaviours and adaptations of snakes over millions of years.
• Prey Preferences: The types and sizes of prey available in an area influence whether snakes evolve as venomous hunters or constrictors, or even a combination of both strategies in some cases.

Venemous snakes

Among the vast array of snake species, some are renowned for their potent venom, which is capable of causing severe harm or even death to humans. Here we delve into the characteristics, geographical distribution, and impact of the 20 most poisonous snakes in the world, highlighting their significance in ecology, medicine, and human society.

1. Inland Taipan (Oxyuranus microlepidotus):
   • Found in central east Australia, the Inland Taipan is revered as the most venomous snake globally.
   • Its venom is predominantly neurotoxic, targeting the nervous system and causing rapid paralysis if left untreated.
   • Despite its potency, human encounters are rare due to its elusive nature and remote habitat.
2. Belcher’s Sea Snake (Hydrophis belcheri):
   • Inhabiting the tropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, Belcher’s Sea Snake possesses highly toxic venom.
   • Its venom is primarily neurotoxic, but bites on humans are extremely rare due to its docile disposition.
3. Coastal Taipan (Oxyuranus scutellatus):
   • Endemic to northern Australia and Papua New Guinea, the Coastal Taipan is another highly venomous snake.
   • Its venom is neurotoxic, causing paralysis and potentially fatal consequences if untreated.
4. Dubois’ Sea Snake (Aipysurus duboisii):
   • Native to the seas of New Guinea, Dubois’ Sea Snake has extremely potent venom.
   • Although bites on humans are rare, its venom is highly toxic and can lead to respiratory failure if not treated promptly.
5. Common Death Adder (Acanthophis antarcticus):
   • Found in Australia and New Guinea, the Common Death Adder possesses neurotoxic venom.
   • Known for its ambush hunting strategy, it can deliver a lethal bite to unsuspecting prey, including humans.
6. Tiger Snake (Notechis scutatus):
   • Endemic to Australia, the Tiger Snake is notorious for its potent neurotoxic venom.
   • Human encounters are relatively common, especially in rural areas, leading to snakebite incidents requiring medical intervention.
7. Black Mamba (Dendroaspis polylepis):
   • Native to Africa, the Black Mamba is one of the fastest and deadliest snakes on the continent.
   • Its venom is highly neurotoxic, causing rapid paralysis and often fatal consequences if not treated promptly.
8. Blue Krait (Bungarus candidus):
   • Found in Southeast Asia, the Blue Krait possesses potent neurotoxic venom.
   • Despite its docile nature, its venom is highly lethal, making it a significant threat to humans.
9. Beaked Sea Snake (Enhydrina schistosa):
   • Inhabiting the Indian and Pacific Oceans, the Beaked Sea Snake has highly toxic venom.
   • Although bites on humans are rare, envenomation can lead to respiratory paralysis and death without proper medical treatment.
10. Eastern Brown Snake (Pseudonaja textilis):
    • Native to Australia, the Eastern Brown Snake is responsible for numerous snakebite incidents in the region.
    • Its venom is neurotoxic, causing paralysis and potentially fatal consequences if untreated.
11. King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah):
    • Found in Southeast Asia, the King Cobra is the world’s longest venomous snake.
    • Its venom is primarily neurotoxic, and while bites on humans are rare, they can be fatal without prompt medical intervention.
12. Philippine Cobra (Naja philippinensis):
    • Endemic to the Philippines, the Philippine Cobra is known for its ability to spit venom accurately.
    • Its venom is neurotoxic and can cause paralysis and respiratory failure if not treated promptly.
13. Western Brown Snake (Pseudonaja nuchalis):
    • Found in Australia, the Western Brown Snake is another highly venomous species in the region.
    • Its venom is neurotoxic, and snakebite incidents often require immediate medical attention.
14. Papuan Taipan (Oxyuranus scutellatus canni):
    • A subspecies of the Coastal Taipan, the Papuan Taipan is found in New Guinea.
    • Its venom is neurotoxic, posing a significant threat to humans in its range.
15. Black Tiger Snake (Notechis ater):
    • Another venomous snake native to Australia, the Black Tiger Snake possesses potent neurotoxic venom.
    • While encounters with humans are relatively rare, snakebites can be life-threatening without prompt treatment.
16. Russell’s Viper (Daboia russelii):
    • Distributed across Asia, including India and Southeast Asia, Russell’s Viper is responsible for numerous snakebite fatalities.
    • Its venom is hemotoxic, causing tissue damage, coagulopathy, and potentially fatal internal bleeding if untreated.
17. Saw-scaled Viper (Echis carinatus):
    • Found in Africa and Asia, the Saw-scaled Viper is notorious for its aggressive behaviour and potent venom.
    • Its venom is hemotoxic, causing tissue damage and coagulopathy, often leading to severe complications if untreated.
18. Eastern Green Mamba (Dendroaspis angusticeps):
    • Endemic to East Africa, the Eastern Green Mamba possesses potent neurotoxic venom.
    • Although human encounters are relatively rare, its venom is highly lethal, necessitating immediate medical attention in cases of envenomation.
19. Red-bellied Black Snake (Pseudechis porphyriacus):
    • Found in Australia, the Red-bellied Black Snake is known for its striking coloration and potent venom.
    • Its venom is neurotoxic, posing a significant threat to humans in its range.
20. Many-banded Krait (Bungarus multicinctus):
    • Native to Asia, the Many-banded Krait is known for its highly potent neurotoxic venom.
    • Despite its relatively docile nature, its venom can cause rapid paralysis and respiratory failure in humans.

Impact on Humans and Society:

• Snakebite envenomation is a significant public health issue in regions where venomous snakes are prevalent.
• Lack of access to timely medical care, antivenom shortages, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure contribute to the impact of snakebites on human health.
• Education, community outreach, and the development of effective antivenom are crucial for mitigating the threat posed by venomous snakes to human populations.
• Conservation efforts aimed at preserving snake habitats and promoting coexistence between humans and snakes are essential for maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity.

I chose the world’s 20 most poisonous snakes because they represent a diverse array of species with potent venom capable of causing severe harm or even death to humans. Understanding their characteristics, distribution, and impact is essential for snakebite prevention, treatment, and conservation efforts. By raising awareness, promoting education, and improving healthcare infrastructure, societies can reduce the burden of snakebite envenom. It is also important to remember that if we seek to avoid these creatures, they will carry on doing what they have been doing for millions of years. If we enter their domain, then the risk to both humans and snakes increases.

Constrictor snakes

Constrictor snakes are a fascinating group of reptiles known for their unique hunting strategy of constriction. Unlike their venomous counterparts, constrictors lack venom glands but possess powerful muscular bodies and specialised techniques for capturing and subduing prey.

1. Biology and Anatomy:
   • Constrictor snakes belong to various families, including the Boidae (boas) and Pythonidae (pythons), distributed across different continents.
   • They are characterised by their robust bodies, muscular strength, and lack of venomous fangs, relying instead on physical force to capture prey.
   • Constrictors typically have elongated bodies, well-developed jaws with numerous teeth for gripping prey, and highly flexible skeletons that allow for efficient constriction.
2. Constriction Technique:
   • The hunting strategy of constrictor snakes involves overpowering prey by wrapping their bodies around it and applying muscular pressure.
   • Constriction is a precise process, with snakes adjusting the intensity of pressure based on the size and resistance of the prey.
   • By restricting blood flow and preventing breathing, constrictors induce asphyxiation, leading to the prey’s death within minutes.
3. Feeding Ecology and Prey Preferences:
   • Constrictor snakes are opportunistic predators, feeding on a wide range of prey items, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and occasionally larger prey such as deer or primates.
   • Their ability to consume relatively large prey enables them to exploit a diverse range of ecological niches and habitats.
   • Prey preferences vary among species and geographic regions, influenced by factors such as habitat type, prey availability, and the snake’s size and physiology.
4. Ecological Significance:
   • Constrictor snakes play crucial roles in ecosystem dynamics and trophic cascades as top predators.
   • They help regulate prey populations, preventing overpopulation of certain species and maintaining ecological balance.
   • By controlling herbivore populations, constrictors indirectly influence vegetation dynamics and habitat structure, shaping the overall biodiversity of ecosystems.
5. Conservation Challenges:
   • Constrictor snakes face various conservation challenges, including habitat loss, fragmentation, illegal trade for the pet industry, and persecution due to human fear and misunderstanding.
   • Overexploitation for their skins and traditional medicine also poses a threat to some species, leading to population declines and localised extinctions.
   • Conservation efforts aimed at protecting constrictor snakes involve habitat preservation, enforcement of wildlife protection laws, sustainable management of captive breeding programs, and public education to promote coexistence and appreciation of these important predators.

Harmless snakes

While fear and aversion toward snakes are common, it’s important to recognize that the majority of snake species are harmless to humans and play vital roles in ecosystems worldwide. Here we explore the significance of harmless snakes, their ecological roles, benefits to ecosystems, and the misconceptions surrounding these fascinating reptiles.

1. Diversity of Harmless Snakes:
   • Harmless snakes encompass a wide range of species belonging to various families, including colubrids, rat snakes, garter snakes, and many others.
   • These snakes are non-venomous and lack the potent toxins associated with their venomous counterparts.
2. Ecological Roles and Benefits:
   • Harmless snakes play crucial roles in ecosystems as predators, controlling populations of rodents, insects, and other small vertebrates.
   • By preying on pests, harmless snakes help regulate prey populations and prevent overgrazing, crop damage, and the spread of diseases carried by rodents.
   • Some harmless snakes also serve as prey for larger predators, contributing to energy transfer and nutrient cycling within food webs.
3. Natural Pest Control:
   • Harmless snakes are valuable allies in agriculture and pest management, providing natural and eco-friendly alternatives to chemical pesticides.
   • Farmers and gardeners benefit from the presence of harmless snakes, which help control populations of rodents, slugs, and other agricultural pests.
4. Misconceptions and Misunderstandings:
   • Despite their ecological importance, harmless snakes are often misunderstood and persecuted due to fear, myths, and cultural biases.
   • Misconceptions about harmless snakes can lead to unnecessary killing, habitat destruction, and declines in snake populations.
   • Education and public outreach efforts are essential for dispelling myths and fostering appreciation for harmless snakes’ ecological contributions.
5. Coexistence and Conservation:
   • Promoting coexistence with harmless snakes is crucial for their conservation and the maintenance of balanced ecosystems.
   • Conservation measures include habitat preservation, reducing human-wildlife conflicts, and implementing policies to protect snake species and their habitats.
   • Community engagement, citizen science initiatives, and outreach programs can empower individuals to participate in snake conservation efforts and advocate for their protection.
6. Educational Initiatives:
   • Educational programs and interpretive centres can help raise awareness about harmless snakes, their ecological roles, and the importance of conservation.
   • Hands-on experiences, guided tours, and interactive exhibits provide opportunities for people to learn about snakes in a safe and engaging environment.

Now that we have journeyed through the different types of snakes, from highly venomous, to constrictors to the harmless let us try and understand our capacity to fear and establish phobias.

The Fear of Snakes

The fear of snakes, known as ophidiophobia, is one of the most common specific phobias experienced by humans worldwide. Despite the evolutionary advantage of being cautious around potentially dangerous animals, this fear often extends beyond rational concerns, leading to significant psychological distress. Here we explore the evolutionary origins, psychological mechanisms, cultural influences, and implications of the fear of snakes, shedding light on this deeply ingrained aspect of human psychology.

1. Evolutionary Origins:
   • The fear of snakes likely has deep evolutionary roots, stemming from our ancestors’ encounters with these ancient predators.
   • Snakes have been potent symbols of danger and threat throughout human history, with their venomous species posing a genuine risk to survival in certain environments.
   • Natural selection favoured individuals who exhibited caution and aversion toward snakes, leading to the transmission of fear-related behaviours and cognitive biases across generations.
2. Psychological Mechanisms:
   • The fear of snakes is often characterised by intense emotional reactions, including anxiety, panic, and avoidance behaviours.
   • Cognitive psychologists suggest that fear of snakes may involve a combination of innate predispositions, learned associations, and cognitive biases, such as attentional vigilance toward snake-like stimuli.
   • Classical conditioning processes, where negative experiences with snakes become associated with fear responses, may further reinforce and perpetuate ophidiophobia.
3. Cultural Influences:
   • Cultural factors play a significant role in shaping attitudes and perceptions of snakes, contributing to the fear of snakes across different societies.
   • Religious beliefs, folklore, myths, and cultural narratives often portray snakes as symbols of evil, temptation, or danger, reinforcing negative associations and fear responses.
   • Media depictions, including movies, literature, and folklore, frequently portray snakes as antagonistic creatures, perpetuating stereotypes and fear-based narratives.
4. Implications and Coping Strategies:
   • The fear of snakes can have significant implications for individuals’ mental health, social functioning, and quality of life, particularly in snake-prone regions or occupations.
   • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy are common treatment approaches for addressing specific phobias, including ophidiophobia.
   • Education, desensitisation exercises, and controlled exposure to snakes in therapeutic settings can help individuals gradually overcome their fear and develop more adaptive coping strategies.
5. Conservation and Ethical Considerations:
   • While fear of snakes may be deeply ingrained in human psychology, it’s essential to recognise the ecological importance of snakes and the need for their conservation.
   • Misguided fear and negative attitudes toward snakes can contribute to persecution, habitat destruction, and declines in snake populations.
   • Promoting awareness, education, and appreciation of snakes’ ecological roles can foster greater coexistence and mitigate the detrimental effects of ophidiophobia on snake conservation efforts.

The fear of snakes is a complex phenomenon shaped by evolutionary, psychological, and cultural factors. While this fear may have provided adaptive advantages in ancestral environments, it can manifest as irrational phobia in modern societies. By understanding the origins, mechanisms, and cultural influences of ophidiophobia, we can develop more effective strategies for addressing and mitigating its impact on individuals’ well-being and snake conservation. Through education, exposure therapy, and promoting positive attitudes toward snakes, we can foster greater understanding, appreciation, and coexistence with these fascinating reptiles.

Like many, if I came across a snake that poses a threat to me, my fear can be both an asset and a disadvantage.

If one does ever enter into this situation, I have found key strategies that one should adhere to:

1. Stay Calm:
   • It’s natural to feel fear or anxiety when encountering a snake, but staying calm is crucial for making rational decisions and avoiding unnecessary panic.
2. Keep Your Distance:
   • If you spot a venomous or constricting snake, maintain a safe distance and avoid provoking or startling the snake.
   • Remember that snakes typically avoid confrontation and will retreat if given the opportunity.
3. Do Not Attempt to Handle or Capture the Snake:
   • Handling or attempting to capture a venomous or constricting snake is extremely risky and should be avoided.
   • Even non-venomous snakes can deliver painful bites or constrictions if threatened or mishandled.
4. Give the Snake Space:
   • Allow the snake to move away on its own accord by giving it space and avoiding sudden movements.
   • Back away slowly and create a clear path for the snake to retreat without feeling cornered or threatened.
5. Alert Others:
   • If you encounter a venomous snake in a public area, alert others nearby to ensure their safety.
   • Warn others to keep their distance and avoid approaching the snake.
   • My son encountered a puff adder outside of his dorm while doing conservation work in Namibia. He backed away slowly and alerted a warden, who safely removed the snake from the vicinity.
6. Contact Local Authorities or Experts:
   • If the snake poses a risk to public safety or is in a location where it may encounter people or pets, contact local wildlife authorities or experts for assistance.
   • Trained professionals can safely and responsibly relocate the snake to a more suitable habitat away from human activity.
7. Educate Yourself:
   • Take the opportunity to learn more about local snake species, their habitats, and their behaviour.
   • Understanding how to identify venomous snakes and differentiate them from harmless species can help you make informed decisions and respond appropriately in future encounters.
8. Prevent Encounters:
   • Take precautions to minimise the risk of encountering venomous or constricting snakes by avoiding areas with dense vegetation, rocks, or other potential snake habitats.
   • Wear sturdy footwear and use a flashlight when walking in areas where snakes may be present, especially at night.

Snakes have been around a lot longer than humans and will be around a lot longer after we have gone. Their role in balancing nature is essential. Most species are entirely harmless to humans, and if we understand and respect them, they will mostly avoid us and continue to do their thing.

The planet needs snakes much more than it needs us, and we are much more of a threat to them than they are to us.

To finish, I will quote the naturalist Steve Irwin:

“We don’t own the planet Earth; we belong to it. And we must share it with our wildlife.”

“The truth is that we will never save wildlife by killing it.”

Jason Cridland

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