Snakes have captivated humans for centuries, inspiring both fear and fascination. A new book sheds light on the complex nature of human-snake relations.
The Complex Nature of Snakes and Humans’ Love-Hate Relationship with Them
Snakes have long been the stereotypical villains, often portrayed as cunning, treacherous, and deadly. However, this portrayal is far from accurate. In reality, snakes are fascinating creatures that have captivated humans for centuries, inspiring both fear and fascination.
Snakes are elongated, legless reptiles that belong to the suborder Serpentes.
They have a flexible body, allowing them to slither and crawl through tight spaces.
With over 3,000 species, snakes can be found in various habitats worldwide, from deserts to rainforests.
Snakes play a vital role in ecosystems as both predators and prey, helping to control populations of small animals.
Many species of snakes are venomous, with some being highly toxic, while others are harmless to humans.
The Evolution of Human-Snake Relations
Throughout history, humans have had a complex relationship with snakes. While some cultures view them as symbols of evil or death, others see them as messengers of the gods or harbingers of good fortune. In ancient Egypt, for example, snakes were revered for their association with the goddess Wadjet, who was said to protect the pharaohs from harm.
Snakes have also played a significant role in human medicine and science. The discovery of the first ACE inhibitor, a class of drugs used to lower blood pressure, was made possible by studying the venom of a South American pit viper. Python research has also led to breakthroughs in diabetes treatments and organ regeneration. Moreover, studies of the sidewinder have helped engineers build snakelike robots that can navigate tight spaces to search for survivors after disasters.
The Dark Side of Human-Snake Conflict
Despite these benefits, human-snake conflict remains a significant problem worldwide. Habitat destruction, hunting, and the pet trade have led to the decline of many snake species, making them vulnerable to extinction. Rattlesnakes in Texas, for instance, are often rounded up as part of a ‘trap-and-remove’ program, which can be detrimental to their populations.
The human-snake conflict is a widespread problem globally, resulting in thousands of snakebite-related deaths annually.
Snakes are often killed or persecuted due to fear and misconception about their behavior.
However, many species play crucial roles in ecosystems as both predators and prey.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 81,000 people die from snakebites each year.
Effective strategies for mitigating the conflict include education, habitat preservation, and non-lethal deterrents.
In Florida’s Everglades, Burmese pythons have become an invasive species, causing significant harm to the native ecosystem. The term ‘invasive’ is often used to describe these snakes, but Hall argues that it is a marketing term coined by humans to distract from our own role in creating this problem.
A New Perspective on Snakes
Stephen S. Hall’s new book, Slither, offers a fresh perspective on snakes and our complex relationship with them. By exploring the science behind snake biology, Hall sheds light on why these animals evoke both fear and fascination. Through personal histories of snake researchers and enthusiasts, as well as his own field reporting, Hall brings the science to life.
One such chapter delves into the history of the Snakebite Papyrus, an ancient Egyptian medical handbook that describes the dangers of snakes and their bites. Hall’s visit to see this rare text is a fascinating account of reverence and dry wit, highlighting the importance of respecting these animals.
The Snakebite Papyrus is an ancient Egyptian medical text dating back to around 1600 BCE.
Discovered in the tomb of a 'physician' , it provides insight into the treatment and understanding of snakebites during that era.
The papyrus lists various remedies for snake venoms, including plant extracts and animal products.
It also describes treatments such as incantations and rituals, indicating the spiritual aspect of ancient Egyptian medicine.
This 3,000-year-old document showcases the ingenuity and resourcefulness of ancient physicians in addressing this pressing health concern.
Conclusion
Snakes are often misunderstood creatures, deserving of our respect and appreciation. By exploring the complex nature of human-snake relations, we can gain a deeper understanding of why these animals have captivated us for centuries. As Hall argues, it is time to give snakes a fair shake and recognize their importance in our world.
Sidebar: Snake Road
Eastern Parkway in New York City leads to the Brooklyn Museum, home to an ancient Egyptian medical handbook known as the Snakebite Papyrus. This handwritten hieroglyphs describes the dangers of snakes at the time, as well as symptoms of their bites and suggested cures. The symbol for venom was derived from the one for phallus in ancient Egyptian writing, highlighting the connection between these two seemingly disparate concepts.
Sidebar: Snake Research
Python research is offering tantalizing clues for diabetes treatments and organ regeneration. Studies of the sidewinder are helping engineers build snakelike robots that can navigate tight spaces to search for survivors after disasters. These breakthroughs demonstrate the importance of continued snake research and our need to protect these animals and their habitats.
Sidebar: Human Impact
Humans are taking a toll on snakes, from habitat destruction to hunting and the pet trade. It is essential that we rethink our approach to snakes and recognize the importance of conservation efforts. By working together, we can ensure the long-term survival of these fascinating creatures.
- sciencenews.org | Snakes are often the villains. A new book gives them a fair shake
