Ugandans warned against keeping snakes

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The world is witnessing an alarming increase in the capture and trading of snakes as exotic pets.

World Animal Protection highlighted that snakes are increasingly being taken from the wild and kept in captivity to supply the international exotic pet market and zoos.

Although source countries such as Uganda claim that commercial rearing of snakes benefits people and conservation, the animals are subjected to torture during capture and inhumane conditions during transportation.

This disturbing trend came to light during a media briefing held ahead of World Snake Day on July 16th.

Those that do survive are kept in captivity and endure a life of misery in inadequate conditions.

Additionally, the Wildlife Campaign Manager at World Animal Protection, Edith Kabesiime, urged the public to resist keeping snakes as pets or visiting zoos that hold them in captivity for commercial purposes.

Edith Kabesiime told uncovered news reporters that “There is a dangerous trend that is currently gaining momentum: snakes are extracted from the wild and kept in captivity to supply the international exotic pet market and zoos.”.

“They are packed in inhumane conditions during transportation and fed improper diets devoid of important nutrients. Those that survive and are bought by the so-called snake lovers spend the rest of their lives caged and live in misery, she added.

Further, “We strongly urge the public to refrain from keeping snakes as pets or visiting zoos that hold them in captivity for commercial purposes.”.

Kabesiime said source countries such as Uganda encourage commercial rearing of snakes, claiming that the practice benefits people and conservation.

But she said amazing creatures are subjected to untold torture during capture. Governments were also called upon to enact policies that protect snakes in their natural habitats.

In conclusion, Kabesiime emphasized that snakes are wild animals that have a right to a wild life, and they are not for humans to abuse and exploit.

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