Every year on July 16, the world celebrates World Snake Day. It is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about these remarkable reptiles, which play an essential role in natural ecosystems. World Snake Day aims to dispel common myths and unfounded fears, as the vast majority of snake species pose no threat to humans. Snakes help maintain ecological balance by regulating populations of rodents and other small animals. That is why their conservation is an important part of protecting biodiversity.
To mark World Snake Day, Mykolaiv Zoo organized an educational lecture featuring live snakes of various species, as well as an interesting collection of preserved specimens.
Visitors learned many fascinating facts about these extraordinary animals, the snake collection at Mykolaiv Zoo, and the snake fauna of Ukraine. Special attention was given to snake conservation and the important role these reptiles play in natural ecosystems.
Participants had the opportunity to see for themselves that snakes are not the "ugly, disgusting, and highly dangerous" creatures they are often believed to be. Instead, they are beneficial animals and an indispensable part of healthy ecosystems that deserve our respect, care, and protection.
Several snake species inhabit the Mykolaiv Region, the majority of which are completely harmless to humans. The most commonly encountered are the grass snake and the dice snake, both non-venomous species that play an important role in controlling populations of small animals. The Caspian whipsnake, the largest snake in Ukraine, can also be found in the region's steppe areas. Although non-venomous, it may defend itself vigorously when threatened. The only venomous snake that occurs in the Mykolaiv Region is the steppe viper, which is found on the Kinburn Peninsula, a territory that is currently under occupation. This rare species is listed in the Red Book of Ukraine. It is not aggressive without provocation and will bite only if disturbed or handled. The best way to avoid danger when encountering a snake is simply to leave it alone and allow it to move away undisturbed.
