TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian Foundation for Snake Studies (Sioux) said that residents should be aware that the prolonged drought caused by El-Nino is likely to increase the likelihood of human-snake encounters - and large snakes are particularly more likely to emerge from their burrows.
"That said, we also want to remind residents to not kill snakes that had emerged from their dens - as they will leave on their own accord," said Sioux Chief, Aji Rachmat in Jogjakarta on Wednesday, September 16, 2015. "Residents could also contact their nearest animal shelter if they are to afraid to handle the snake on their own."
According to Rachmat, the drier-than-usual dry season will have a significant impact on these cold-blooded creatures. "Snakes also have to drink, and in their search for water, most will emerge from their burrows," he said, before adding that high-temperatures will also drive snakes out to cool their body temperatures down.
"Reptiles do not have the capacity to generate their own body heat - which will drive these creatures to seek out places where they could regulate their temperatures," said Rachmat.
"Larger snakes will need more thermoregulation in this weather - so it is common to see large snakes out and about in this season," continued Rachmat, who said that most snakes are not dangerous - unless contact is initiated.
"Larger snakes are more temperamental, so contact should be avoided. That said, the biggest danger comes from humans themselves - once they have their sights set on a snake, the perception of danger often drives them to kill the wandering snake," said Rachmat, who said that snakes should be protected as they have a vital role in keeping the ecosystem in check - which they do by eating rodents in the wild.
ANTARANEWS
