We are thrilled to announce that our Facebook community, Snakes of Southern Africa, has just crossed a remarkable milestone — 500,000 followers! This achievement places us among the largest and most engaged snake-focused groups in the world, and it’s more than just a number. It’s a testament to a growing community passionate about snake conservation, education, and coexistence.

Why is this milestone so important?
Because together, we’re making a tangible difference in how snakes are understood and appreciated.

Snake Conservation

Our group has become a powerful platform for promoting snake conservation. With so many species under threat from habitat loss, road mortality, and persecution due to fear and misinformation, raising awareness is critical. Through photos, discussions, and expert insights, we help dispel myths and highlight the ecological importance of snakes as both predators and prey.

Snake Education

Education is at the heart of everything we do. From correcting misconceptions about venomous species to teaching the public how to safely coexist with snakes, our group serves as a trusted, science-based resource. With the collective knowledge of enthusiasts, herpetologists, and snake rescuers, we’re helping thousands of people identify snakes correctly and make informed, safe decisions about relocations.

Range Extensions & Snake Habits

Our community also plays an unexpected but important scientific role. Members regularly share sightings that contribute to range extensions — expanding the known distribution of various snake species. In doing so, we are building valuable datasets about snake habits, behaviours, and habitats, which can support research and conservation projects.

Hitchhiker Snakes

Southern Africa’s diverse landscape — and its busy transport networks — means snakes sometimes show up in surprising places. Whether it’s a snake that’s travelled long distances hidden in cargo, vehicles, or garden materials, we’ve helped identify a number of ‘hitchhiker snakes’, ensuring both human and snake safety.

Snake Awareness & Safety

Through shared stories, advice from experts, and real-time snake identifications, we are raising snake awareness in practical ways. Our members learn what to do if they encounter a snake, how to reduce snake encounters around homes, and when to call in professionals — reducing unnecessary snake kills and bite incidents.

Our Growing Library of Resources

To support our community, we’ve developed a range of accessible educational tools:

• Snake Profiles: Easy-to-understand guides on common and rare species.
• Easy ID Charts: Visual aids to help quickly differentiate similar-looking snakes.
• Kids Snake Cards: Fun, informative cards to spark curiosity and educate the next generation.
• Snake Posters: For all areas in Southern Africa.

Snake Rescuer Network

We maintain an up-to-date list of snake rescuers across the country, connecting people in need with trained professionals who can safely relocate snakes. This network not only saves countless snakes each year but also prevents dangerous DIY removal attempts. People from other African countries are also welcome to be added to the rescuer list.

Snake Identification for Medical Doctors

In most snakebite incidences, both patients and doctors have no idea what snake caused envenomation and doctors treat symptoms, not snakebites. Around 90% of all snakebite victims do not receive antivenom, as it is not necessary. But in a number of cases, doctors receive a positive identification of the snake responsible, via our group and this may be invaluable as the doctors know what symptoms may manifest,

Thank you to every member, contributor, and expert who has helped us reach this point. With half a million voices strong, we are showing the world that snakes deserve respect, understanding, and protection.

Here’s to the next 500,000!