Stop Killing Snakes Indiscriminately – ZimParks

The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) has urged the public to stop killing snakes indiscriminately, saying the reptiles are vital for ecological balance and biodiversity.

In a statement to mark World Snake Day on Thursday, 16 July, ZimParks said snakes play a critical role in controlling rodent populations, which in turn supports 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,” ZimParks said.

“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, with the majority being non-venomous and generally avoiding human contact.

Some venomous species, however, can 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,” ZimParks said.

ZimParks said people should not kill snakes but maintain a safe distance and seek help from trained wildlife officers or the relevant authorities.

“On this World Snake Day, the Authority urges members of the public not to kill snakes indiscriminately,” said ZimParks.

“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.”

In the event of a snakebite, ZimParks said victims should stay calm, seek immediate medical attention and avoid using unverified traditional remedies.

“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,” ZimParks said.

“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.”

To minimise snake encounters, ZimParks said communities should clear rubbish around homes, seal gaps in buildings, keep food properly stored and keep rodent numbers under control.

Zimbabwe is home to several venomous snake species, with a handful accounting for most serious snakebite cases. The black mamba (Dendroaspis polylepis), known in Shona as mhungu, is one of Africa’s fastest and most venomous snakes. The closely related eastern green mamba (Dendroaspis angusticeps) is also highly venomous and is often referred to as mhungu in some Shona-speaking communities.

The Mozambique spitting cobra is another highly dangerous species. It can accurately spray venom into the eyes of a perceived threat. The snouted cobra is also highly venomous and is commonly found around settlements and farmland.

The puff adder is responsible for many snakebite incidents in Zimbabwe. Rather than fleeing, it relies on camouflage and often remains motionless, increasing the likelihood of people accidentally stepping on it.