Sep 3, 20243 min read

SNAKE SEASON - ARE YOU PREPARED?

SPRING SNAKE TONG SALE:

What should one do should you encounter a snake?

Immediately retreat at least five paces and observe the snake from that safe distance. Bear in mind that some snakes can spit their venom with a range of close to 3 m.

Never attempt to catch or kill a snake unless you have the right equipment.

Avoid using braai tongs or garden gloves to remove a snake.

Immediately clear the area of people and remove all pets, especially dogs. Dogs are natural hunters and quick to try and kill any snake that they encounter.

Get your own snake equipment

NATCHEM JOINT VENTURES:

Limited stock available

Special prices are for stock on hand only

First come first serve

Budget Snake Tong 1m

Total length 110cm

Weighs 610g

P635.00 p/unit

JM175 Collapsible

Snake Tong

Length when collapsed: 118 cm

Length when extended: 175 cm

Weight: 710 g

P1000.00 p/unit

JM150 Snake Tong

Total length 154 cm

Weighs 800 g

P940.00 p/unit

Universal Field Hook With Universal Sleeve

Weighs: 240 g

Colour: Red

P940.00 p/unit

Natchem Botswana, in collaboration with the African Snake Bite Institute (ASI), is now a key supplier and reseller of snake tongs and accessories. This partnership underscores Natchem's dedication to wildlife safety and conservation, providing essential tools for safe snake handling and contributing to the awareness and prevention of snakebite incidents across the region.

CLICK ON THE PICK FOR ALL INFORMATION NEEDED

5 Essential Reasons Why Snake Tongs Are a Must-Have for Handling Snakes

In Botswana, the transition from autumn into winter presents a unique period where understanding and managing wildlife, particularly snakes, becomes crucial. While the common perception might be that snake encounters decrease significantly during the colder months, there are several reasons why being prepared, including having snake tongs on hand, remains essential. Here are five compelling reasons why snake tongs are indispensable for handling reptiles in Botswana during this period:

1. Unexpected Encounters

Even as temperatures drop, snakes are not entirely inactive. Many species may seek refuge in warmer spots, which can include human habitats or storage areas. Encounters during these times can be unexpected, making the safe distance provided by snake tongs invaluable. Being prepared with snake tongs can mitigate the risk of surprise encounters, especially in areas where snakes may enter homes or outbuildings seeking warmth.

2. Safety for All

The primary concern in handling snakes, whether for research, conservation, or relocation purposes, is safety. Snake tongs allow for the handling of snakes without direct contact, minimizing the risk of venomous bites. This is crucial in protecting not just the person handling the snake but also ensuring the snake isn't harmed or stressed unnecessarily. In the cooler months, when snakes are slower and possibly more vulnerable, ensuring their safety along with human safety is paramount.

3. Conservation Efforts

Winter is a critical time for conservation activities, including habitat management and wildlife monitoring. Snake tongs are an essential tool for researchers and conservationists working with reptiles during this period. They enable the gentle handling of snakes for study or when relocating them away from human-populated areas, contributing to ongoing conservation efforts and the study of snake behavior during the colder months.

4. Preventing Unwanted Encounters

As people prepare their homes and environments for the colder weather, encounters with snakes can increase. Using snake tongs can aid in the safe removal of snakes found during activities such as clearing debris, preparing firewood, or other winter preparations. This prevention is crucial in avoiding unwanted encounters that could lead to bites or other conflicts between humans and snakes.

5. Educational Opportunities

The use of snake tongs, particularly by wildlife professionals and educators, provides an opportunity to teach communities about snakes and their role in the ecosystem. Demonstrating the safe and respectful handling of snakes can help dispel myths and reduce fear, fostering a coexistence mindset. Educational initiatives can be particularly effective during the autumn and winter months when people may not expect to encounter snakes, broadening their understanding and appreciation of these reptiles year-round.

Importance of Preparedness from Autumn into Winter

Being prepared with the right tools and knowledge is crucial throughout the year in Botswana, a country rich in biodiversity, including a wide range of snake species. The cooler months do not exempt residents and professionals from the need for caution and readiness in handling snakes. Snake tongs represent a critical component of this preparedness, offering a means to manage encounters safely and respectfully.