Walking along trails in the Atlantic Forest or in the Serra do Mar is always very enjoyable and rewarding. But we must always stay alert, because snakes are there in their natural habitat. In reality, it is us who are invading their area. That’s why I believe we have the duty to respect the local fauna and flora, wherever we may be.

On our hikes through the woods we have already seen rattlesnakes, jararacas, and coral snakes. In any case, here are some tips for you to have a safe and pleasant walk:

🐍 Always wear long leather boots.
🐍 Do not put your hands into bushes, branches, or thickets.
🐍 Always stay on the trails and do not make alternative paths.
🐍 If you come across a snake, step aside and do not disturb it. Respect the animals.
🐍 If you are about to start a trail and feel insecure or unprepared, turn back and don’t insist.
🐍 Much of what we learned about snakes came from people who live in areas where they are common. Value the wisdom of those experienced in the trails.
🐍 Snakes are not abominable creatures lurking in the woods waiting to bite people. They play an important role in ecological balance.

Below are photos we took at the Butantan Institute in São Paulo. It is located at Av. Vital Brasil, 1500, near the Butantã station on the Yellow Line of the Metro. It’s worth a visit!