July 16 — International Snake Day: How to Love the Most Mysterious Reptiles on the Planet Ask anyone what animals evoke the strongest fear in them, and \"snakes\" will almost always be the answer. But there is a day when even the most ardent opponents of scaly creatures are ready to admit: these creations are not just terrifying, they are mesmerizing. On July 16, the world celebrates International Snake Day — a festival that aims not so much to glorify reptiles as to dispel the myths that have shrouded them for centuries. Where did this day come from The Snake Day was first celebrated in 1975. Who exactly was the initiator, history is silent — it is one of those holidays that arise not by decree from above, but from the common need of humanity to reconsider its attitude towards nature. Animal protection organizations, environmental communities, herpetologists — all contributed to making July 16 the day when we finally stop being afraid and start understanding. Today, International Snake Day is celebrated in many countries around the world. On this day, lectures, exhibitions, film screenings about the life of snakes, excursions to zoos and reserves are held. The main goal is to tell the general public about the way of life, behavior, and the huge role of snakes in natural communities. And, what is no less important, to teach people how to behave safely when encountering a snake. Why are snakes so important for the planet Snakes are not just \"slithering vermin,\" as they are often called. They are a key element of ecosystems, without which the natural balance would collapse. They regulate the population of rodents that carry dangerous diseases and cause serious damage to agriculture. One snake can destroy dozens of mice and rats in a year — and this is the best natural protection for fields that nature has thought up. Moreover, snakes maintain the health of the soil, water purity, and stability of food chains. Where there are snakes, the ecosystem works like ... Read more