Animal experts are worried by the increasing number of snakes being captured and traded as exotic pets.
Edith Kabesiime, Wildlife Campaign Manager at World Animal Protection, said there is a dangerous trend that is currently gaining momentum where snakes are extracted from the wild and kept in captivity to supply the international exotic pet market and zoos.
She added that source countries such as Uganda encourage commercial rearing of snakes claiming that the practice benefits people and conservation.
“Make no mistake! These amazing creatures are subjected to untold torture during capture. They are packed in inhumane conditions during transportation and fed improper diets devoid of important nutrients. Those that survive and are bought by the so-called snake lovers, spend the rest of their lives caged and live in misery.”
She urged the public to refrain from keeping snakes as pets or visiting zoos that hold them in captivity for commercial purposes.
“We are also calling on governments to ensure that their policies protect snakes in the wild. Snakes are not for us to use and abuse. They are wild animals and have a right to wild life,” Kabesiime said.
Her remarks comes ahead of the World Snake Day, celebrated annually on July 16 to raise awareness about the challenges faced by snakes and advocate for their protection.
Reptiles, comprising approximately 20% of the global exotic pet trade, are one of the most misunderstood groups of animals.
In Uganda, snakes are an integral part of the country’s biodiversity, occupying diverse ecosystems ranging from lush rainforests to arid savannas.
However, human activities, habitat loss, and wildlife trade pose severe threats to their existence.
It is estimated that over 100 snake species in Uganda are currently at risk, including the iconic Black Mamba, Ball Python, and the vibrant Green Bush Viper.
Snakes play a vital role in controlling rodent populations and maintaining the ecological balance.
Animal World Protection noted that the thriving industry of exotic pet trade which exploits snakes needs to be disrupted and dismantled eventually.