World Snake Day

How many species of snakes do you think live on the planet? To find out the answer to this question, join the celebration of World Snake Day. The day, which is celebrated annually on July 16, is dedicated to raising people’s awareness of snakes, and there are more than 3.5 thousand species of them. Many people are afraid of reptiles, but their fears are only partially justified, because snakes, as a rule, do not attack first, although some of them are poisonous.

The History

The snake is one of the oldest creatures on earth, scientists believe that reptiles are descended from lizards that lived on land in the period from 174 to 163 million years ago. Experts note that reptiles are charming and often do not receive worthy recognition. Even a traitor is called a snake. World Snake Day has a noble mission – to change people’s attitude towards reptiles and learn to understand them.

Interesting Facts

• The oldest snake found in England, it is proved that she lived 167 million years ago.
• The snake was often mentioned in ancient myths, was present in different religions. Remember that Satan took the form of a serpent to appear to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden.
• The myths of Ireland also mention snakes. In the 5th century, Saint Patrick climbed a hill, where he fasted for 40 days, and here he had to repel the attack of snakes. For protection, St. Patrick waved his staff, and the snakes were in the sea.
• Also, a demon in the form of a snake is mentioned in Chinese mythology.

How to celebrate

Try to change your mind about snakes and be sure to share the holiday on social media. Visit the nearest zoo, or even better – a terrarium where snakes live. Such a family trip will instill in children care and attention to reptiles, teach them to appreciate snakes, to handle them carefully. Post interesting material about snakes on social networks, invite children to draw a snake, think up a good fairy tale about it.

When is World Snake Day celebrated in 2022?

World Snake Day is observed on July 16 each year.

Observations