Why Snakes Deserve Our Respect: Insights from Experts on Conservation and Safety

Understanding the Role of Snakes in Our Ecosystem
By Manoj Kumar Jena
The sound of a snake hissing often instills fear in many, but this behavior serves as a defense mechanism against threats. The fear of snakes is widespread, as their bites can be fatal within hours, leading to a long-standing animosity between humans and these reptiles.
In light of this ongoing conflict, it's crucial to recognize the ecological significance of snakes. This year's theme, "Respect, Don’t Fear: Protecting Nature’s Silent Guardians," emphasizes the need for compassion and conservation efforts.
Experts have called for increased awareness regarding snakebites and the importance of safeguarding these remarkable creatures.
The Sathee Parivar organization, dedicated to snake rescue and conservation, aims to foster understanding between humans and snakes through educational initiatives.
Siddharth Pradhan, the organization's president, highlighted the vital role snakes play in the ecosystem. He stated, "When people hear 'snake,' they often think of danger. However, snakes are beneficial to humans, especially farmers, as they help control rodent populations that threaten crops."
Pradhan pointed out that many fatalities occur due to reliance on superstitions rather than seeking medical help for snakebites.
"In remote areas, individuals often resort to traditional beliefs instead of taking victims to hospitals. Timely medical intervention can save lives, and the government should implement more awareness programs in these regions," he urged.
Aditya Behera, a snake rescuer, remarked, "In India, people fear snakes more than tigers. However, snakes are not our foes; we are theirs. They only strike when they feel threatened."
He cautioned against the unnecessary killing of snakes, as a decline in their population could disrupt the ecosystem. Additionally, snake venom is crucial for developing medicines for serious illnesses like cancer.
Behera advised against killing snakes, especially as urbanization forces them into human habitats. Instead, he encouraged people to contact snake rescue organizations or the Forest Department for safe relocation.
Pratyush Mohapatra, a senior scientist at the Zoological Survey of India, noted that India is home to approximately 367 snake species, with 81 being potentially dangerous. In Odisha, 76 species have been documented, including 28 venomous varieties.
He explained that only a handful of species, such as the spectacled cobra and Russell’s viper, are responsible for the majority of snakebite fatalities.
Interestingly, the monocellate cobra is found mainly in northeastern Odisha, while the saw-scaled viper, part of India's 'Big Four' venomous snakes, is relatively rare in the state.
Mohapatra emphasized the need for a structured approach to assist snakebite victims, advocating for the effective implementation of the 'Payment of Compensation to Victims of Natural Calamities and Snake Bite Act, 2014.' This would ensure free medical treatment and financial support for those affected.
According to the act, compensation amounts to at least ₹50,000 for partial disability and ₹1,00,000 for permanent disability or death.
Dr. Kumar Soumyakanta Bisoi, a consultant physician, explained that snakes, being cold-blooded, are drawn to warmth, especially during rainy seasons, which can lead them to human dwellings. He advised rural residents to sleep on elevated surfaces and maintain clean surroundings to reduce the risk of snakebites.
He also highlighted the medicinal value of snake venom, which is used to create antivenom and treat various diseases. For instance, antivenom for cobra bites is derived from the venom of the same species.