SNAKES
PROTECTING THE ARMENIAN VIPER
BREEDING SNAKES AT THE ZOO EXZOOBERATION SAVE THE DATE SNAKES. WHY DID IT HAVE TO BE SNAKES?
SCALED WONDERS
Now Through February
Table Of Contents
STRATEGIC OPERATIONS TEAM
Jeff Ettling, Ph.D., President and CEO
Holly Ellis, Chief Financial Officer
Paula Shields, Chief People and Culture Officer
Nikki Smith, Chief Philanthropy & Marketing Officer
David Hagan, Chief Life Sciences Officer
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Lucia Lindsey, Chair
Chuck Ged, Immediate Past Chair
Kerri Stewart, Chair-Elect/Vice Chair
Salmaan Wahidi, Treasurer/Finance Committee Chair
Kelly Coker-Daniel, Secretary
Pamela Phillips, Governance Committee Chair
John Hayt, Honorary Advisor
GENERAL BOARD
Ken Amaro, City Council Appointee
John Baker III
Martha Frye Baker
Scott Chamberlayne
LeAnna Cumber
Mayor Donna Deegan
Kenyonn Demps
Fredrik Eliasson
Dan Fields
Mike Gay, City Council Appointee
Wilfredo Gonzalez
Carolyn LaRose
Kelli O’Leary, Mayoral Appointee
Missy Peters
Hope Selevan Prober
Paula Renfro
Param Sahni
Jason Spencer
Joel
Danny
Martha Baker
J.F. Bryan
Carl Cannon
Howard Coker
Charles Commander
Jed Davis
Matt Fairbairn
Chuck Ged
Joseph Hixon
J. Michael Hughes
Lewis Lee
David Loeb
Richard Martin
Frank Miller
John A. Mitchell
Thomas Schmidt
Bill Rowe
Carl “Hap” Stewart
James Stockton
Penny Thompson Courtenay Wilson
Protecting the ARMENIAN VIPER
Two Decades of Field Studies MAKING AN IMPACT
Jeff Ettling, PhD President & CEO
The sun rises over the serene, rolling hills of Meghri Ridge in southern Armenia. The fog begins to lift, and bright red poppies dance in the morning breeze. I breathe in fresh mountain air and carefully scan the ground as I hike through the knee-high grasses. With a watchful eye and attentive ear, I continue along the rocky ridge. At last, my trained ear hears something crawling. And there it is—an Armenian viper, Montivipera raddei, slithering its way through the grass in search of a warm basking site, a place to hide, a mate or maybe something to eat.
At this moment I am thrilled. Finding this snake means that this important species found only in the Armenian Highlands and Lesser Caucasus Mountains is—at least for now—still on our planet, enriching Armenia’s ecosystem and heritage. Just decades ago, the Armenian viper was thriving, so much so that it was considered “common” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Today, they are classified as vulnerable as their populations have dropped by 88 percent due primarily to mining and agriculture activities destroying their habitat. And the Armenian viper is not alone Another ten species of amphibians and reptiles native to Armenia are in danger of extinction thanks to human impact. Ironically, it’s now up to humans to save them.
“Their populations have dropped by 88 percent due primarily to mining and agriculture activities destroying their habitat. And the Armenian viper is not alone.”
Abovman, Armnia
“From an ethical standpoint, it is our responsibility as the caretakers of the earth to nurture our ecosystems.”
Why should we care about this? From a practical standpoint, each species plays a vital role in Earth’s ecosystem. Snakes play an important role in both managing rodent populations and serving as food for other animals in the food chain. When one of these species goes extinct, there is a disruption in the food chain. Rodents run rampant and spread disease. Birds of prey that depend on snakes for food must adjust their diets. These disruptions have a cascading effect on a multitude of animals—and ultimately, humans.
Snakes can also benefit humans directly. The venom from Armenian vipers, for instance, can be humanely collected and was historically used as a blood-clotting agent in surgery. Today, synthetic clotting agents, based on the components in the venom, are used instead.
But from an ethical standpoint, it is our responsibility as the caretakers of the earth to nurture our ecosystems and the other species that call them home. The harsh truth is that species are vanishing from our planet each day, and many of us idly sit by and watch. If we continue to wait for someone else to step up, who will save these species? Who will ensure that this amazing diversity of wildlife is on the planet for future generations to enjoy? Who will stop the rapid epidemic of extinction before it reaches humans?
“Why should we care about this? From a practical standpoint, each species plays a vital role…disruptions have a cascading effect on a multitude of animals—and ultimately, humans.”
Armenian viper
We need to do what we can, where we can and we need to do it before it’s too late.
I have had the good fortune to study Armenian vipers for the past 20 years. Our studies of their spatial ecology, genetic diversity and population structure have been used to increase the size of two protected areas in Armenia, as well as help in part to establish two new protected areas.
Two years ago, we initiated the Abovyan Conservation Project at one of our long-term study sites. The site is located approximately 23 kilometers northeast of the capital city of Yerevan and suffers from habitat degradation resulting from agricultural activities (i.e., mix of crops and overgrazing). Because of these activities, we discovered that there had been a decline in prey abundance, particularly rodents, when compared to a recovered natural landscape. The overgrazed habitat reduces the availability of burrows and food for the rodents and makes them more vulnerable to predation by carnivores and raptors. The objective of our project is to protect the three overwintering dens used by the Armenian vipers and facilitate the regeneration of native vegetation that will benefit both predators and prey. We employ a local shepherd as a ranger who safeguards the habitat by preventing overgrazing and illegal collection of the vipers. Additionally, we are collaborating with the local community on projects that benefit the residents and provide environmental education opportunities in the schools. Our goal is to have the area declared a protected sanctuary that will not only benefit the Armenian viper, but the other species that call this habitat home.
Dr. Jeff Ettling, left, measuring an Armenian viper.
“We need to do what we can, where we can and we need to do it before it’s too late.”
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is providing funding that has allowed us to lease 25 hectares of mountain steppe habitat where the overwintering dens are located, to employ the local shepherd as a ranger and to develop an educational brochure for use in the adjacent community and school. We are encouraged that the mountainside impacted by overgrazing is already showing signs of vegetation recovery. It’s exciting to see that our efforts are making a positive impact on the Armenian viper and its habitat. Stay tuned for future updates on the progress of the Abovyan Conservation Project.
Microchipping an Armenian viper.
Abovman, Armnia
WHAT'S NEW Births, Hatchings, Acquisitions
By Donna Bear, Curator of Species Management and Jasmine Alvarado, Species Management Officer
Casque-headed iguana
(Corytophanes cristatus)
The casque-headed iguana, primarily found in Central America, is known for the prominent cone-shaped crest on the back of its head, which gives it a striking appearance. Adapted to life in tropical rainforests, this iguana spends most of its time in trees, blending seamlessly into its environment. Its long tail, which can be up to three times the length of its body, aids in balance and agility as it
moves between trees and plants. Casque-headed iguanas are generally insectivorous, feeding on a variety of insects and small invertebrates. They have a lifespan of seven to 10 years and lay three to seven eggs annually, with juveniles being fully independent at hatching. Check out these fascinating lizards at The Lost Temple.
Photo: Cayle Pearson
Yellow-billed stork
(Mycteria ibis)
The yellow-billed stork is a wading bird native to Africa and Madagascar, easily recognizable by its bright, yellow bill and white plumage with black flight feathers. Often seen along rivers, lakes and wetlands, this stork is a skilled hunter, using a method called "tactile foraging." It sweeps its open bill through the water, snapping it shut when it detects prey, such as fish, frogs or insects. Known for their social behavior, yellow-billed storks are frequently spotted in groups. As colonial nesters, they gather in large numbers and with other similar species during breeding season. Their vibrant coloration and graceful movements make them a standout in African wetland ecosystems. You can also see these lovely birds in our River Valley Aviary just after entering the Zoo.
Photo: John Reed
Greater kudu
(Tragelaphus strepsiceros)
The greater kudu is a majestic African antelope, known for its large, twisted horns and sleek, grayish-brown coat with white vertical stripes. Native to southern and eastern Africa, it thrives in woodlands and bushlands, where its coloration provides natural camouflage. The greater kudu’s elusive behavior and camouflage have earned it the nickname "the grey ghost." Wildlife enthusiasts and zoologists coined this term, as kudus are often difficult to spot in their dense habitat.
July–September 2024
Births
& Hatches
Also celebrated for its agility, the greater kudu can jump over obstacles up to eight or 11 feet high to escape predators. Visit our greater kudu herd at the Africa Loop, where they share a famous mixed-species habitat with our white rhinos and grey-crowned cranes!
Acquisitions
Legend: 0.1.2
First digit male
Second digit female
Third digit sex unknown
Two digits only represent male and female
CAPS = Endangered Species
* (Asterisk) = First time at the Zoo
†(Dagger) = Released back into the wild
‡ (Double dagger) = Stillbirths
Photo: John Reed
YEAR OF THE SNAKE
Celebrate the Lunar New Year at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens during Colors of the Wild on Wednesday, January 29, from 5:30–9:30 p.m.! Immerse yourself in festive fun with activities for all ages. Craft your own Chinese Yo-Yo, test your knowledge with Lunar New Year Trivia across six stations and collect Red Envelopes with Good Fortune coins along the way.
This year, we’re honoring the Year of the Snake with special themed activities and surprises. Snakes symbolize wisdom, transformation and prosperity in Chinese culture, making them the perfect inspiration for a night of celebration. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of culture, creativity and connection under the glow of our stunning lantern displays.
Photo: John Reed
WHO'S WHO AT THE ZOO
Amie Mercado
Senior Herpetology Care Specalist
How long have you worked at the Zoo?
I’ve been at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens for six years and in the field for 13 years. The Herpetology Team works in each of our herp houses and provides care for all our animals, but we usually have a home building. I am the primary caretaker for the reptiles in the Lost Temple, and I also provide care in the Amphibian Conservation Center a few days a week.
What were your previous jobs/career paths and how did they lead you here?
I started off as critter keeper at Gatorland, Orlando. I cared for the whole animal population there including Florida panthers, bobcats, goats, parrots, Florida cracker cattle and of course, gators! From there, a natural step was to the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park where I cared for every species of crocodilian that existed at that time. In 2016, I was one of two people in the room when the Indian Gharial hatched outside its natural range of India and Nepal for the first time in history.
What does a day in your shoes look like?
Every day is unique, and the animals in my care require different things at various times. In the mornings, I usually focus on basic husbandry, such as cleaning and changing waters. The herp buildings can house between 60 and 80 animals, and we typically cover two buildings a day, which can take time as we keep an eye on everyone. At midday, we work with a partner to do tasks that require two people for safety such as servicing venomous animals. In the afternoons, I’m back in Lost Temple to do feedings and deep cleaning projects. Outside of my department, I recently became a co-chair of the Culture Committee, a role that requires time and energy, which I enjoy giving. I also love collaborating with different departments on side projects.
What is your favorite animal?
I always say whichever animal I’m currently working with is my favorite. I really do love them all. But I will say I have a special place in my heart for crocodiles and rattlesnakes.
What is your favorite exhibit?
I really enjoy Asia Bamboo Garden and Savanna Blooms Garden. Each season brings something amazing and truly beautiful to look at. I love walking through with my Seek app and Audubon bird call app.
When or how did you first develop an interest in animals/the zoo world/education?
I grew up catching snakes and lizards with my brother, but I really fell in love with it when I was in college. I took all the “ology” classes my school had to offer (mammalogy, herpetology, ornithology and parasitology) then I sealed the deal with an animal behavior class. Now, my favorite things to think about are what the animals are doing and trying to understand why.
Are you native to Florida? If so, where? If not, where did you grow up?
I am originally from Colorado. I was born in Colorado Springs and went to the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley for a few years. I later moved to Humacao, Puerto Rico and went to the Universidad de PR where I finished my degree in biology. After I graduated, I moved to Orlando to start my career as an Animal Care Specialist.
What is your favorite part of your career or what is your most memorable experience at the Zoo (or your old zoo)?
I once had a little girl come up to me and ask to take a photo with me because she wanted to be just like me when she grew up.
I totally melted, it proved the importance of what we do and the role we play for public perspective of reptiles. Few people are willing to speak positively about reptiles and amphibians. I love being a person that can give a voice to these animals, hopefully change a few minds or at the very least show people all animals deserve respect and admiration.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love spending time with my husband and my kids. We like going on hikes, cruising the St. Johns on the boat, going to Fort George sandbar, playing soccer and watching baseball and hockey games! I feel like I was made to be a boy mom, I absolutely enjoy every second of it!
Please share any other comments you would like included in your article (stories, experiences, more about yourself etc.)
I used to spend a lot more time in public view when I was at the Alligator Farm because they have shows every hour of the day so, on show days, we were the face of the Farm. One time I walked up to do the feeding show a lady stopped me and asked, “Is that where the man is going to feed the alligators?” and pointed to the feeding platform. I turned with my feed bucket in hand and said, “Yes, from right there.” She shouted to her family “We’re in the right spot he’s going to feed right there." I then unlocked the gate, stepped onto the platform and started the show. Afterwards, she stopped me again and said, “I’ve got to tell you, I had an image in my head of who was going to come out to do the Alligator feeding show and it wasn’t you.” I smiled and touched the pink bow I had in my hair and said, “Oh yeah?” We both laughed and she told me she was pleasantly surprised to see a woman in such a male dominated field. Again, I love being the unexpected person to love reptiles. It shows that anyone can be a herpetologist. Representation matters.
Calendar EDUCATION
Spring Zoo Camp 2025
March 17th - 21st 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Ages 5-10
Spring is in the air! Let's take a break from sitting in school and enjoy a week of outdoor camp at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. Spring campers will spend the mornings exploring the Zoo, following one of our education staff members through a different area of the Zoo each day. After lunch, campers will spend the afternoon meeting animal ambassadors, playing camp games, doing arts and crafts and participating in a variety of fun, educationalthemed activities outside in nature. All Zoo Camps include exclusive behind-the-scenes encounters and up-close experiences with some of our amazing animals.
Spring Zoo Camp | Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
Spring Semester Early Childhood Programs
Stroller Safari
Ages 0–3
Pack up the stroller, put on your walking shoes and bring your little one on an early learning adventure as we stroll through the Zoo. Make new friends while you visit animal exhibits, meet a friendly animal ambassador and explore the animal world with all your senses!
Stroller Safari | Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
Nature's Newbies
Ages 1–3
Classes will engage you and your child in free choice play activities, a storybook, song and more! Programs will also feature a positive and engaging interaction with one of the Zoo's animal ambassadors to allow for an up-close encounter during each class.
Nature's Newbies | Child and Parent Activities Jacksonville
Zoo Tots
Ages 3–5
Zoo Tots focuses on specific animal themes to engage your preschooler as he/she learns about the wonders of the animal kingdom. Each program emphasizes positive and engaging interactions with animal ambassadors as well as activities, stories and crafts that revolve around the week's central theme while promoting classroom readiness.
Zoo Tots | Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
Jaguar
Mexican Alligator Lizard
Rock Python
We are deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend and colleague, David Parker-Blackburn, who passed away after 18 years of dedicated service to Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. As a cherished member of our Horticulture team, David poured his heart into the gardens he lovingly tended, leaving behind a legacy of beauty and growth that will forever enrich our grounds.
David was more than a skilled gardener—he was a source of joy and warmth to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His ever-present smile and kind spirit brightened even the toughest days. His presence will be deeply missed by his colleagues, friends and all who admired his artistry in the gardens he nurtured. As we walk through the spaces he cared for, we are reminded of his dedication and the profound impact he had on our team and our mission.
We extend our deepest sympathies to David’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. May the beauty he brought into the world continue to inspire and comfort all who experience it.
Rest in peace, dear friend. Your roots are forever part of the Zoo and your legacy grows on.
ANIMAL CARE
Breeding Snakes at the Zoo Eastern Indigo Snakes
By Matt Korten, Senior Herpetology Care Specialist
The Eastern Indigo snake is the largest native nonvenomous snake in the United States, reaching lengths of eight to nine feet. Its scientific name, Drymarchon couperi, translates to "Lord of the Forest." It earns that nickname not only because of its impressive size but also because of its diverse diet. Indigo snakes are known to eat amphibians, rodents, lizards, snakes and even species of venomous snakes like Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes. Historically, Indigo snakes were found throughout the southeastern United States. However, due to habitat loss and human activities, their native range is now restricted to southern Georgia and northern Florida. In 1978, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services classified the Eastern Indigo snake as a threatened species and implemented protections to help improve their status in the wild. Since its classification, zoos, including Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, have stepped up to contribute to conservation efforts.
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens participates in the Species Survival Plan (SSP) program for the Eastern Indigo snake. The goal of SSP programs is to maintain genetic diversity and sustain the population of a species under human care. Different institutions contribute to this goal in various ways. For example, the Oriane Center for Indigo Conservation (OCIC), in partnership with the Central Florida Zoo, breeds indigos for release and reintroduction. Other zoos, such as Zoo Tampa and Zoo Atlanta, rear snakes as part of a headstart program, preparing them for release when they are large enough. Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens supports the SSP by breeding indigo snakes and sending them to other Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) institutions as ambassador and exhibit animals, helping to educate guests about the species' importance and conservation needs. The Zoo has been involved in this effort since the early 2000s, successfully hatching seven snakes in 2022 and nine in 2023.
So, what is the breeding process? Each year, we contact the SSP coordinator for recommendations on which individuals we should breed. While we’ve had great success with our current pairing, due to overexpressed genetics (too many offspring with similar DNA) we received a new male for the 2023 breeding season. Once we know the pairing, it all comes down to timing and the weather. While most snakes breed in the spring as temperatures warm, Indigo snakes are triggered to breed by cooler temperatures. At some institutions, these conditions are simulated by dropping the thermostat or putting animals into a controlled refrigerator. Due to the Zoo’s location, our outdoor habitats at the Wild Florida Herpetology building are the perfect enclosures for pairing our Indigos.
We time all our pairings for when the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and the snakes are left together for 24–48 hours before being separated to prevent undue stress. Additionally, Indigo snakes eat other snakes, including members of their own species, so precautions are taken to avoid conflicts. In the weeks leading up to the pairing, we introduce a fresh shed of
the male snake into the female’s enclosure. This allows us to evaluate the female’s reaction to the introduction of another snake without introducing that snake. This was especially important when we switched males since we did not know how our female and new male would behave. We pair the snakes three to four times from October to January. Afterward, the female is moved to nest privately behind the scenes while the male remains on habitat. Eggs are expected to be laid between April and May and have a 100-day incubation period. Once the hatchlings arrive, it is our job to get them to start eating and begin preparing them for their new homes at other AZA facilities with the approval of the SSP coordinator.
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has a long history of collaboration with Eastern Indigo snakes. Our first specimen arrived in 1957, and our first successful breeding occurred in 1984. Over the years, 63 snakes have been hatched here, with most born in the last two decades. By educating others about the importance of snakes and the roles they play about the ecosystem, you can help support indigo conservation. Our Indigo snakes will continue to be on display at our Wild Florida Herpetology building. From June to January, you can see our female snakes on display, and from January to June, you can see our males.
Scaled Wonders
A Snake Photo Journey
By Hannah Favorite ANIMAL HIGHLIGHT
Western gaboon viper
Timber rattlesnake
African rock python
Southern copperhead
Yellow ratsnake
GARDEN HIGHLIGHT
Riverview Garden
Petals in Focus
By Hannah Favorite
Photos: Hannah Favorite
Centratherum punctatum
Dwarf Angelonia hybrid
Cuphea x “Kirsten’s Delight”
Graptopetalum paraguayense
Senna bicapsularis
Petunia “Silverberry” with Lobularia “Blushing Princess”
You are coordially invited to come together for a night filled with fun, food and festivities while supporting our vital wildlife conservation efforts. This special event is an opportunity to connect with our community, learn about our important work in protecting plant and animal habitats, and enjoy a unique experience alongside the incredible wildlife we cherish. By attending, you’ll not only have a great time but also play a crucial role in fostering a future where both people and wildlife can thrive together. More details coming soon!
VIDEOS
JAX Zoo Tube
Happy 55th Birthday, Archie!
Capybaras Are the Best Animals at the Zoo, and Everyone Should Visit Them
Colors of the Wild
To see additional videos please visit our Instagram or our YouTube Channel
Jumping Jaguars
DIGITAL SCAVENGER HUNT
Interactive fun creates a curiosity for learning. As Nature Agents, you can discover, learn and bond together on a digital scavenger hunt using the NEW Explorer Quest app!
DOWNLOAD EXPLORER QUEST
APP MANUALLY OR SCAN
COMPASS PAIRS WITH MOBILE APP
SNAPSHOT SOCIETY
Green Mamba
By John Reed, Photography Volunteer & Snapshot Society Instructor
My favorite snake to photograph at the Zoo is the Green Mamba in the African Reptile Building near the elephants. The reason is simple: they offer a wide variety of poses and react to you. I’ve been told this is because they are highly sensitive to observed motion. They will see you, react to your presence and often look right at you! Just a friendly reminder- no knocking on the glass. It’s not appropriate and not needed.
When it comes to photographing snakes at the Zoo, two challenges stand out: the environment is dark, and the lighting has a yellowish color cast. While these are easy to address in theory, they can be tricky in practice. For the dark environment, simply use a higher ISO setting to achieve a fast enough shutter speed. To deal with the yellow light, simply adjust your white balance. For jpg shooting, use the “indoor” setting. This is also sometimes called “tungsten” or “incandescent,” depending on your camera brand. All of these settings mean the same thing.
If you shoot in RAW, you can easily adjust the color balance when converting the file, so any setting on the camera can be used. However, using auto white balance (AWB) is usually the safest option.
Green Mambas are longer and more active than many other snake species. If you’re patient, you can capture many different poses, from coiling around the branches to nice close-ups and head shots. Fortunately, they do not move very fast. I’ve had success with shutter speeds as slow as 1/40 of a second with a tripod. For handheld shots, raising the ISO to enable a faster shutter speed is usually more effective in low light. You should also be shooting with your largest aperture due to the low light reducing depth of field. With the snake looking right at you, this can mean the nose is unsharp when the eyes are, and vice versa. Closing down the aperture for more depth of field helps, but this will require increasing the ISO even further.
Here are six shots I’ve taken over the years with the camera settings included. Try it and enjoy these magical creatures next time you visit!
The tongue is blurry due to slow shutter speed and the nose is soft due to low depth of field to get the eye sharp.
Photos: John Reed
1/50 sec f/5 ISO 3200
1/50 sec f/5 ISO 3200
This head is not sharp on this one since focus was here…but I liked it because of all the twists and turns of the body.
1/30 sec f/5.6 ISO 3200
1/60 sec f/5.6 ISO 6400
Photos: John Reed
1/50 sec f/4 ISO 3200
WHY DID IT HAVE TO BE SNAKES?
By Mark Sheppe, Senior Graphic Designer
You’re safe. This article contains no snake images . If you’re a fan of cinema, you’ll recognize the title was inspired by the movie, Raiders of the Lost Ark . Remember that iconic scene where Indiana Jones steps into an ancient Egyptian chamber teeming with snakes? His reaction said it all: “Snakes. Why did it have to be snakes?” Like Indiana Jones, many Americans have strong feelings about them that are not positive. Now, bear with me. This article is about snakes, and you might already be bracing yourself for something you disagree with. That said, a better title for this piece is Don’t Hate the Snakes.
I’m not a herpetologist, so I won’t pretend to be a snake expert. I’m a graphic designer, and this is my thirteenth year working for the Zoo. Over the years, I have learned a lot about animals working here, including snakes. I also still have the same giddy excitement about wildlife that I had as a kid. For example, several times a year I find myself running into the house exclaiming with glee that I just saw a legless lizard in the yard. To which my wife affectionately responds, “you mean a snake.” That's when I lovingly respond with a big grin and a wink, "Snakes don’t have eyelids or ears." Those are facts I didn’t know until after I started working at the Zoo.
For many Americans, their fear or hatred of snakes runs deep. However, it isn’t entirely their fault because it is woven into our culture. Do you have family and friends that hate, dislike or fear snakes? I’m betting you do. My own awareness of this negative bias grew exponentially when the Zoo launched its first Titanoboa exhibit in 2015. We showcased a life-sized replica of the giant prehistoric snake. During research for the exhibit, I was both floored and amazed at how often snakes are negatively portrayed in movies and TV. It was right in front of me my whole life and I hadn't realized it.
Almost all of our popular culture movies and TV portrayals of snakes are negative or a misrepresentation of some kind. Don’t believe it? Start tracking it when you watch shows. Try to find a realistic or positive portrayal of snakes other than Viper the snake character from Kung Fu Panda. There aren't that many.
Visiting the Lost Temple in Range of the Jaguar might make you feel like you're visiting a film set. It features several exhibits that include frogs, snakes, turtles and lizards.
Here are some notable examples of popular movies that were negative about snakes or portrayed them in unrealistic ways.* Warning, spoilers are ahead:
• Beetlejuice (1988): Beetlejuice turns into a rattlesnake to terrify the new residents living in the Maitland's house.
• Harry Potter series (2001–2011): There is an evil snake sidekick named Nagini. Harry battles a giant serpent and talks with snakes.
• The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes (2023): Genetically engineered snakes are used as deadly weapons.
• Indiana Jones series (1981–2008): Snakes were used to amplify thrills.
• Jungle Cruise (2021): Explorers were cursed to become snakes.
*All the movies that are mentioned are highly entertaining. I like them all, even though I'm pointing out how snakes are portrayed in them.
The first draft of this article had more than 50 movies listed which had to be trimmed down for brevity. But the list doesn't end there—it goes on and on. Snakes are most often typecast as villains or ominous creatures, perpetuating fear, misunderstanding and misconceptions.
So, here’s where I ask everyone with any degree of disdain to stop hating snakes or to try to control their fears. Honestly, I probably can’t say much to alleviate fear, which is often irrational. But hatred? We might be able to do something about that. The point of asking is to save innocent animals from unnecessary harm and being killed. Snakes are just animals that deserve to live and evolve like any other.
One way to shift those hard feelings is by learning a few facts about them. Here are a few things to know about snakes:
• They avoid humans. Their behavior is well-documented. They generally avoid confrontation with people. Leave them alone, and they’ll leave you alone.
• Snakes sometimes bite in self-defense.
• Most of them are not venomous. In Florida, there are 46 species of native snakes. Only six are venomous.
• The risk of dying from a venomous snake bite in America is close to zero. That said, never approach or try to handle venomous snakes. Keep your pets away from them too.
• Snakes help control pest-populations. For example, if you see a rat snake, I would personally be more concerned about the food sources they are looking for.
• Snakes play a key role in the food chain by eating animals and by being eaten by animals. If nothing else, I hope this article encourages people who hate them to rethink their perspective on snakes. I know it’s unrealistic to expect scriptwriters to stop using snakes as easy scare tactics. But it sure would be appreciated if they created more characters like Indiana Jones' pilot-friend in Raiders of the Lost Ark , who had a super-friendly attitude towards the snake in the biplane, “Oh that's just my pet snake Reggie!”
