Snakes are one of the most misunderstood animals by most people. It is because many misinformation about snakes.
This misinformation is spread continuously and passed down from generation to generation by many people, unknowingly.
Not only in Indonesia but also among people around the world.
This is proven by the rampant misinformation through testimonies and posts (groups and individuals) about snakes on social media.
"I have 2 pictures of snakes, one is a pipe snake (Cylindrofis ruffus), which is a non-venomous snake in a condition that has been killed by local residents. How could it not be? Its appearance alone is scary, like a highly venomous Bungarus candidus snake. In fact, this snake doesn't even want to bite humans," said the Chairman of Exalos Indonesia, Janu Widodo.
The second photo is a mountain viper (Trimeresurus puniceus), this is a highly venomous snake that is only found in highland or mountainous areas.
Because of its color and pattern similar to trees, this snake is rarely seen.
These patterns and colors are the snake's way of hiding, - mostly to ambush prey, and also to avoid predators.
Although dangerous, incidents of contact with climbers or people doing activities around them are very rare.
Every snake has an important role in the ecosystem. Making itself a predator for pests or prey for other animals.
"We just need to learn to understand and comprehend so that potential dangers can be minimized. The dangers are short-term, such as snakebite accidents or long-term, such as ecosystem damage," said Janu.
