Snakes: Love ‘Em or Leave ‘Em?

Author’s note: This article originally appeared at eNature.com and is republished here with their kind permission. The information within reflects many of our views.

Ophidiophobia is an irrational fear of snakes. Many people, perhaps a majority, claim to have a loathing or dislike of these limbless reptiles. Why do snakes get such a bad rap?

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Fear of Nature

What happens if an animal attacks us?  Is it scary out there?  What do we do if we see an animal?  These are just some of the questions elementary students ask as we prepare them for their field trip to Imperial National Wildlife Refuge 40 miles north of Yuma, Arizona.  And their questions impress upon us how far removed today’s children are from nature.

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Begging Wildlife

A raccoon tiptoeing near our campfire the other night surprised and delighted all of the volunteers gathered for a hot dog roast at Imperial National Wildlife Refuge.  For years we’ve seen raccoon tracks, and occasionally we catch a glimpse of one.  But, unlike other raccoons on the Refuge, this animal lingered, obviously not shy around people.

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