Article: Zoo Negara officer out to stop needless killing of serpents

Monday December 15, 2008

Story and photos by GRACE CHEN

Zoo Negara media relations officer Tayalan Raman is on a one-man crusade to promote snake conservation.

"Snakes are a misunderstood lot because people find it hard to relate to them.

"It does not help that some societies regard their presence as a sign of evil.

Show of fangs: The mangrove tree snake is mildly venomous but the poison emitted from its rear fangs is only harmful if the victim has a low level of antibodies. The toxin may result in high fever, swelling and itchiness

"There is also the misconception that all snakes are venomous and as such, they end up being killed," said the 27-year-old.

As a result, Tayalan said many snake species were now endangered.

"Snakes are not only unloved, they are also exploited for medicinal purposes.

"Their skin is sought after by Chinese medicinal halls and they are also caught for anti-venom production," he said.

This is a cause for concern because, as carnivores, they serve an important role by keeping the balance of the food chain intact.

"In agriculture, for example, snakes play a part in keeping the rodent population in check.

"This prevents the mice from growing in large numbers and destroying the crops," Tayalan said.

Snake lover: Tayalan shows how gentle handling can get one acquainted with a reticulated python.

Snakes also act as thermometers for the environment as they are very sensitive to atmospheric changes.

"One reason why snakes are always flicking out their tongues is to pick up chemical signals from their surroundings. The chemical molecules that they collect with their tongue are placed inside their mouth and then inserted into the Jacobson's organ. The Jacobson's organ analyses the information, and tells the snake about the surroundings.

As snakes are cold-blooded, Tayalan also revealed that they have to rely on their surroundings to control their body temperature and this is the reason why a large number of snake species are found near the equator.

"The habitat of snakes is divided into four categories: arboreal (lives on trees), terrestrial (lives on land), aquatic (lives in water), and burrowing (lives underground). If they leave their habitats, then something is wrong," he pointed out.

In reaching out to the public to play their part in snake conservation, Tayalan urged that seeing a snake was not reason enough to kill it.

"Most snakes are more afraid of you than you are of them. Do not bother them. Just move away if you happen to come across one.

Yunnan striped snake: This non venomous species is rare and can only be found in deep lowland forests

"If you should get bitten by a venomous snake, remain calm. This may sound hard but if you panic, it will cause the venom to travel faster in your bloodstream. Apply a tourniquet above the bitten area and seek help," said Tayalan who was bitten by a viper two years ago.

In addition, he also advised the public to read more literature on the subject to help them identify the venomous snakes from the harmless species.

"The fear of snakes is mostly due to conditioning which may begin from childhood.

"With education, the public perception may change and in due time the snake may even be appreciated for its beauty and its role in the ecosystem," said Tayalan.

Tayalan can be contacted at 012-6091450.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Metro: Central 15 December 2008