Animal Diaries Archive

Venomous Snakes Appearing In Snake Show

4 March 2005

We have always had a daily snake demonstration, usually involving the display of a large non-venomous snake. We want to change people's views on reptiles, especially snakes, so now we've added a little extra.

Most days visitors will get to witness Big Richard handling either a King Brown Snake, Australia's 2nd largest species of venomous snake or a Fierce Snake, the most venomous snake in the world; drop for drop their venom is 3 times more toxic than a Coastal Taipan.

Not only does this grab people's attention but it also teaches Zoo guests how to avoid coming into conflict with a snake, how to treat an Australian venomous snake bite, and also explains that venomous snakes are not sinister little animals that go around trying to bite people.

While we understand that a lot of people won't go away from the Zoo loving snakes as much as we do (we are pretty passionate about them!) as long as they can leave with a little more respect for them, and a few skills to keep them safe, we're happy.