By Agamemnon Pattichis
- Member of the Board of Directors of the Association of Pet Services Providers (SOPYK)
At the mere mention of the word “snake,” most people’s reaction is almost automatic: fear, a defensive stance, perhaps even unjustified aggression.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
For centuries, these reptiles have borne the burden of a deeply rooted prejudice. In folklore, in cinema, and in everyday life, the snake has been identified with evil and danger.
If, however, we set aside the myths and stereotypes for a moment, we will discover a different reality. Snakes are not enemies of humans. On the contrary, they are an integral part of the natural balance, valuable allies of the ecosystem, and important indicators of its environmental health.
Their Valuable Role in the Ecosystem
Natural predators of rodents
Snakes are among the most important natural predators of mice and rats. A single snake can consume dozens of rodents each year, helping to control their populations. This reduces damage to agricultural crops and limits the risk of disease transmission.
An Important Link in the Food Chain
Snakes are both predators and prey for other species, such as birds of prey (eagles and hawks) and certain mammals. Their presence is an indication of a healthy ecosystem with rich biodiversity.
Myths and Facts
Most fears surrounding snakes stem from ignorance. Let’s look at some of the most common myths we encounter in Cyprus.
Myth 1: “All snakes are venomous and deadly”
There are eight species of snakes found in Cyprus. Of these, only one is considered dangerous to humans: the Finas (Macrovipera lebetina).
Most species, such as the Dropis, the Therko, and the Cypriot snake, are harmless to humans. There are also species, such as the Saita and the Xylodropis, that have mild venom in their rear fangs, which poses no danger to humans.
Myth 2: “Snakes attack humans”
Snakes do not seek contact with humans. They perceive humans as much larger and more dangerous creatures and, in most cases, try to get away.
A bite can occur only when they feel threatened, trapped, accidentally stepped on, or when someone attempts to catch or kill them.
Myth 3: “The Therco (Black Snake) is dangerous”
The Therko is a striking but completely harmless snake. It has no venom; it feeds mainly on rodents and, in many cases, even on other snakes, including the Fina.
Killing it can disrupt the natural balance and encourage the growth of venomous snake populations.
How Can We Coexist Safely
Coexisting with nature doesn’t mean we have to love snakes, but we do need to learn to respect them.
Some simple safety measures include:
• Wear closed-toe shoes and long pants when walking in areas with dense vegetation.
• Do not put your hands under rocks, into rock crevices, or between pieces of wood without checking first.
• Keep the area around your home clean by removing debris, wood, and dense vegetation that attract rodents and, consequently, snakes.
• If you encounter a snake, stay calm, take a few steps back, and give it time and space to move away. Never attempt to kill or move it on your own.
A Different Perspective
Fear of snakes is natural. However, killing an animal simply because we’re afraid of it is not a solution—it’s usually the result of ignorance.
Snakes aren’t here to harm us. They exist because they are an integral part of nature and contribute daily to maintaining the ecological balance.
The next time our paths cross with a snake, let’s remember that we’re not facing an enemy, but a silent ally of the natural environment. Let’s give it the space it needs and choose respect over violence.
Sources
- Cyprus Forestry Department
- IUCN Red List
- Cyprus Herpetological Society
- Scientific literature on the herpetofauna of Cyprus
