Snakes are a common fear amongst lots of people for many reasons, but some of them are unnecessary.
At Lower Dauphin High School, plenty of people share this fear. Snakes are found almost everywhere on earth, meaning it is nearly impossible to never come across one. This also means that there are lots of stories of snake bites and other problems they can induce, justifying one’s fear of them.
Students were asked about their fear of snakes. Did they have a fear of them and why?
“Yes, because the way that they unhinge their mouths is creepy to me,” Replied sophomore Aurora Schell.
Caleb Espenshade, who’s also a sophomore, also responded, saying “A little, but at the same time I know they’re only defending themselves, and so, if I don’t encroach upon them, then I guess not.”
When approaching the subject of snakes with an awareness and understanding of them, the fears can be dimmed to a much more reasonable level. Lots of people develop the fear because they’re scared of being bitten, especially by a venomous snake. It’s easily avoidable as long as you respect the reptile and don’t touch it. It’s extremely unlikely for a snake to bite you unless you are provoking it. Its venom is its primary weapon when hunting prey, and it would much rather have an easier time getting something to eat then waste it on something that may not even be a threat.
Snakes are also very beneficial to the environment. Some species native to Pennsylvania eat wasps and other pesky insects that could cause you more harm than snakes themselves. They’re a food source to larger birds like crows and hawks as well.
