Snake show dispels myths

They are one of the most misunderstood creatures, says Friends of Snakes Society

October 08, 2017 12:04 am | Updated 12:04 am IST - TIRUPATI

Children witness the handling of snakes  in Tirupati on Saturday.

Children witness the handling of snakes in Tirupati on Saturday.

Amidst the mild chaos created after watching a live serpent, a small hand rises from the crowd — “So, if the snake does not have poison, does it attack with its tail?” asks an inquisitive youngster. “Does it bite?” queries another. “Does it fly in the air? Does it really consume milk/eggs?” a barrage of questions are directed at the snake handler, not only from the children but also from the accompanying adults.

The Snake Show organised by the Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park (SVZP) in association with the Hyderabad-based Friends of Snakes Society, as part of the 63rd Wildlife Week celebrations here on Saturday, was terrifying yet fun for the visitors.

“Snakes are one of the most misunderstood creatures and are associated with several myths and misconceptions. The facts which we explain during such demonstrations take some people by surprise, as they are subjected to a pre-conditioned set of notions,” said Kamalesh Sagar, a member of Friends of Snakes Society.

Python, Common Krait, Russell’s Viper, Spectacled Cobra, Rat Snake, Checkered Keelback, Red Sand Boa (commonly referred as the two-headed snake) and others were displayed for the audience with a detailed description of their habitat, behaviour, prey, venom and other such aspects.

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