So many people seem to be afraid of snakes that some experts speculate this is a predisposition inherited from our distant primate ancestors. But snakes are not out to get us, and will avoid people as much as they possibly can. These incredible creatures fare best when left alone in their natural environment, not as pets.
As beautiful as some snakes are, they do not make good pets. A girl was killed by a python kept as a pet in 2009. People get snakes when they’re small and may let them loose as they grow. Burmese pythons have invaded the Everglades and could spread—and other species may follow.
Snake Ban Doesn't Go Far Enough
It's good news—especially for the Everglades—that four kinds of dangerous exotic snakes can no longer be imported or traded. But the ban doesn't apply to the five snake species that make up the majority of the exotic snake trade.
Learn MoreMore About Snakes
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