Snake Identification and Bite Treatment Course(Handling course now incorporated)

This course covers all the venomous snakes as well as semi-venomous snakes in RSA. You will be taught how to identify them from other snakes, what venom they possess, their distribution, habitat and how to treat their bites. You will receive all the necessary course material on the day. You will be shown images of all the dangerous snakes and snake bite studies as well as live specimens of most of the venomous snakes. You will write exams after the course and successful candidates will later receive certificates.

Immediately after this will be the snake handling course. This course has been attended by zoo staff, field guides, game rangers, herpetologist and hobbyist. All of them rate this course, as one of their most valuable skills learnt to date. This course is aimed at people that come into contact with snakes and other reptiles in the field or for people wanting to learn more on how to handle snakes and reptiles in a responsible and safe manner. The course is both theory and practical and each candidate will have the opportunity to handle a non-venomous and venomous snakes.

You will be lectured on the various methods of handling venomous snakes as well as shown in practical demonstrations. Safe husbandry practices when venomous snakes are concerned is also discussed and explained as well as various equipment is demonstrated.

You will be lectured on the do’s and don’ts, as well as the golden rules. All candidates must sign indemnification forms and minors need their parents / guardians permission and signature.
This course is run under strict supervision, and two snake wranglers are present at all times during practical assessment.

Successful candidates will receive certificates.