Snakes are always looked down upon as degrading and extremely dangerous species according to superstitions and beliefs. Why exactly are they degrading and who loves to look after them? Both the questions have clear and detailed answers in Parassinikkadavu Snake Park in Kannur district. It is the only snake park in Kerala that preserves and maintains around 150 species of reptiles found in Kerala- venomous and non-venomous. King cobra, spectacled cobra, Russel’s viper, pythons, krait, and pit viper are some of the snake varieties found in the snake park.
Apart from the reptiles, other endangered amphibians, mammals, marine creatures, etc are also preserved from extinction. This park is built in Kannur as part of the Visha Chikista Kendra, which is a medical centre that deals with the diagnosis and treatments of snake bites. An analysis shows that more than a thousand cases are being reported every year. The establishment of the park had a clear aim of constructing a snake center, where people can come and visit different types of snakes, getting rid of the old superstitions and learning more about the species. Outside each cell of snakes, a board is kept that explains the type of snake, their habits, interests, peculiarities, etc that in turn educates the visitors.
During live shows, one can see the trained person interacting with a variety of snakes and playing with them to reduce the fear of the audience. Most tourists are fascinated by the live shows and the array of snakes on the display. There has been a proposal for a laboratory that extracts venom from the snakes for researchers within Parassinikkadavu Snake Park. For all the wildlife lovers, who actually care about the exotic and endangered animals – especially the slithering snakes, here is a must-visit destination to be added to your list.
Timings
9:30 am to 5:30pm
1-2 hrs duration
Contact Details
Parassinikkadavu Snake Park
Dharamsala, Parassinikadavu,
Kannur Kerala 670563
