The article "Snakes beware: reptiles targeted across Bangladesh after rise in sightings of Russell’s viper" provides a comprehensive overview of the escalating issue of snake killings in Bangladesh, driven by a surge in sightings of the Russell’s viper and widespread misinformation. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a dramatic encounter between a farmer, Amin Mandol, and one of these venomous snakes, setting the stage for a broader discussion on the ecological and social implications of the phenomenon.
The Russell’s viper, once considered critically endangered, has seen a notable increase in sightings across Bangladesh, expanding from 17 districts in 2012 to 27 districts in 2024. This rise has sparked public fear and panic, exacerbated by rumours and sensational media reports. The snake, named after Scottish herpetologist Patrick Russell, is known for its potent venom, which has been linked to an uptick in fatal bites. Conservationists, however, argue that the snake’s population growth may be attributed to a decline in its natural predators, such as mongooses, eagles, and other snakes.
The crux of the issue lies in the rampant misinformation proliferating through social media and national media outlets. Alarmist headlines and viral posts have painted the Russell’s viper as a relentless predator, leading to widespread fear and the indiscriminate killing of not just vipers, but other snake species, including non-venomous ones like the Burmese python. This misinformation includes exaggerated claims about the snake's venom potency and its behavior, stoking irrational fears among the public.
Prominent conservationists like Mahfuzur Rahman and Shahadut Hossain have faced significant backlash for their efforts to advocate for snake conservation. Hossain’s experience, where a social media post about rescuing a Russell’s viper led to a torrent of criticism, underscores the deep-seated fear and misunderstanding surrounding these reptiles. The conservationists lament the public's lack of awareness about the ecological role of snakes and the importance of biodiversity.
The indiscriminate killing of snakes has broader ecological ramifications. Snakes play a crucial role in controlling rodent populations, which are pests in agricultural settings. The fear-driven refusal of workers to harvest crops, as experienced by Mandol, leads to economic losses and disrupts agricultural productivity. Conservationists like Prof Farid Ahsan emphasize measures to mitigate snake encounters, such as wearing protective gear and using torches and sticks to scare snakes away.
The Bangladeshi government and health sector are attempting to address the issue by ensuring the availability of anti-venom and emphasizing rapid medical response to snake bites. The Wildlife and Nature Conservation Circle at the Forest Department is also involved in countering misinformation and addressing public concerns. The development of a new, locally-produced anti-venom by the Venom Research Centre is a promising step, although existing anti-venoms remain effective.
While the article effectively highlights the multifaceted nature of the problem, it could delve deeper into the socio-cultural factors that contribute to the fear of snakes. Understanding local beliefs and practices around snakes could inform more effective public awareness campaigns. Additionally, the response from conservationists and the government should be more coordinated, leveraging both traditional media and social media platforms to disseminate accurate information and educate the public on the ecological importance of snakes.
In conclusion, the situation in Bangladesh underscores the critical need for balanced media reporting, public education, and cohesive conservation strategies to address the complex interplay of fear, misinformation, and ecological sustainability. The indiscriminate killing of snakes not only threatens biodiversity but also disrupts agricultural practices and the natural balance of ecosystems. Addressing this issue requires a concerted effort from conservationists, government agencies, and the media to foster a more informed and rational public discourse.
source : https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/article/2024/jul/16/bangladesh-snakes-russells-viper-misinformation-online-rumours-panic-conservation
