Moorcroft Conservation Foundation

Meet Liam, one of our first MCF Junior Ambassadors. Follow along as we introduce more of these young aspiring conservationists and join them in making a difference.

Let's chat about wild snakes! Most of the attention native snake species get is directly tied to fear mongering and danger, but that's far from their reality. Yes some snakes are very dangerous and deserve a healthy respect, but that does not mean they're out to harm you. They're just another creature trying to survive and they're an important part of the ecosystem.

Working around captive animal collections tends to attract snakes in higher concentrations than the average person would encounter. Often times the snakes are simply trying to eat the very pests we try to deter from our animal habitats. Sometimes however, snakes will attempt to predate on our own animals and/or their offspring and eggs. This still does not justify ending the snakes life simply for trying to survive.

Relocation saves the snakes life as well as resolves the issue of potential predation on a life in our care. We do not recommend free handling snakes unless you're certain it's a non-venomous species and you're competent in handling them in a way safe for yourself and the snake. For venomous species, use tongs and large tubs to avoid any possibility of being harmed unnecessarily. In our case, venomous or not, they get relocated to suitable habitat down the road a safe distance away from any of our animal housing facilities.

Be kind, even if you're scared or don't understand something.