As many of you will know we work very closely with a local rural school, supporting the teachers and pupils in a variety of ways. Of-course key to us, is wildlife conservation.
Many if not most of the pupils are terrified of snakes and the local community would probably kill any snake they see. There are cultural issues surrounding snakes but the biggest fear factor comes from one of a lack of understanding.
That is why we asked Neels Botha to come along to the school and bring some of his snakes for the children (and teachers) to see and where appropriate touch. Neels runs a snake conservation program and a big part of that program is to help educate people about snakes.
Both pupils and teachers were initially reluctant to go anywhere near the snakes, but after one brave young girl (pictured top) stepped forward, the spell was broken and the children became excited to see, touch and understand more about snakes. Of-course this is Africa and we have some deadly poisonous snakes here as well as the non venomous species pictured. But Neels explained about the different types of snakes and how to behave if one is seen. The children now know to ask an adult to call Neels if they see a snake in or around their homes. If it is a venomous snake then there is now no need to kill the snake as Neels has a licence to relocate the snake and then everyone will be happy.
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