A relação e os acidentes com serpentes em populações do entorno do Parque Estadual Mata da Pimenteira, Pernambuco, Brasil

Abstract

Since ancient times, civilizations have lived alongside snakes and the relationship between man and these reptiles has changed over time according to the culture of each region. In the Mata da Pimenteira State Park, located inthe Brazilian semiarid region, various species of native wildlife are under pressure by human populations that reside in the area. Understanding the dynamics of these relationships is of fundamental importance to developing and carrying out management strategies. Therefore, the present study describes the resident’s perception of the reptiles in the rural communities around the State Park of Mata da Pimenteira, as well as the procedures in case of accidental encounters with venomous snakes. We interviewed 57 individuals in a semi-structured format, complemented by free interviews and informal conversations. These interviews revealed an antagonistic relationship between snakes and the residents of the Mata da Pimenteira State Park. However, this should not be accepted as justification for indiscriminate killing given the importance of these animals and the significant environmental damage that would result from such action. Fear, lack of knowledge, and the inability to identify venomous snake species must allbe addressed through public education policies and actions aimed at informing the public about the important roles that venomous and non-venomous snakes play in the environment. Public policies and projects for bite prevention, as well as treatment, in the case of venomous snakebites are also fundamental.