Snakes are a widely overlooked, feared, despised and even mythologised group in nature. Despite their timid disposition and tendency to avoid humans, and their crucial role in controlling pest populations, they are typically viewed through a negative lens. The impulse to harm, capture, or kill them has become almost routine. In Sri Lanka, only five of the 112 snake species are venomous snakes of the highest medical importance. Yet, the stigma persists.

Globally, the pet trade has grown increasingly popular, driven by the exotic colours and rarity of certain species, which are seen as markers of prestige. In Sri Lanka however, public understanding and appreciation of snake diversity remain limited. Awareness of snakebite precautions is slowly improving, but, incidents still occur in both rural and urban areas where victims have died simply because they failed to seek immediate medical care.

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