National Zoological Garden embraces the year of the snake

In honour of the Year of the Wood Snake, the National Zoological Garden (NZG) is inviting residents to check out the collection of exotic serpents they have.

Last month marked the start of the Chinese New Year. Unlike the Western world, the Chinese follow a lunar calendar and thus celebrate the New Year when the new moon appears.

The year of the Wood Snake (2025), according to the Chinese Zodiac, symbolises transformation, wisdom, intuition and a time to let go of old habits and make room for growth.

In line with this theme, NZG is keen to raise awareness about its snake conservation efforts and invites members of the public to visit the zoo to learn more about the environmental programmes at the facility.

The NZG is home to a diverse collection of 66 snakes, representing 36 species.

This includes 22 non-venomous and 14 venomous species; with a mix of indigenous South African snakes and exotic species from around the world.

Some of these species include:

– Black mamba: One of Africa’s most dangerous snakes, this species is highly venomous and incredibly fast. Two Black mambas call the NZG home.

– Green anaconda: The world’s heaviest snake, the largest recorded specimen weighed around 227kg. The zoo is home to two Green anacondas, including Mandy, who is a remarkable example of this powerful species, measuring 4.5m in length and weighing around 50kg.

– Reticulated python: Widely recognised as the longest snake in the world, the Reticulated python is admired for its striking patterns. There have been reports of Reticulated pythons reaching 10.05m in length but these are not verified. However, there are several examples of these snakes measuring over 7.5m. Our Reticulated python is still a baby, so we’ll have to wait and see if she can one day compete for the title of the longest snake.

– Cobra: The NZG hosts five species of cobra, including the Cape cobra, Black Forest cobra, Mozambique spitting cobra, Snouted cobra and Western barred spitting cobra. These species showcase the diversity of these venomous snakes.

– Puff adder: This snake is responsible for the majority of snakebite incidents in Southern Africa because of its mottled colouration and habit of lying still when approached. While its venom is highly potent, fatalities are rare with proper treatment.

Snakes are often regarded as misunderstood and while some can be lethal, most are non-venomous and do not pose a threat to humans.

Snakes control rodent populations, which helps prevent the spread of disease and can shed their skin multiple times a year, a process that symbolises growth and renewal in many cultures.

“The snakes at the NZG receive expert care to ensure their health and well-being,” says Tracy Rehse, Director of Animal Conservation.

“Their enclosures are carefully maintained to replicate their natural habitats, providing them with the appropriate temperature, humidity, and hiding spaces to feel secure. The zoo’s dedicated reptile specialists monitor their behaviour, conduct regular health checks, and ensure that their diets meet their specific nutritional needs.”

Senior Conservation Officer at the NZG, Conway Shirindza, says that depending on their sizes, NZG snakes are fed once to twice a week.

“Their diet consists of appropriately sized prey, such as rodents and birds, mimicking what they would eat in the wild. Each feeding is carefully monitored to ensure the snakes are healthy and thriving,” Shirindza concludes.

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