"Fangs and Facts: Arefine’s Mission to Save Snakes and Change Minds"

Snakes – for many, the word conjures images of fear and danger. But what if we told you these often-maligned creatures are vital to our ecosystem and deeply misunderstood? We sat down with Rezoana Arefine who likes to go by Arefine, a passionate zoology graduate and founder of the Kunduli Foundation, who is dedicated to changing perceptions and promoting snake conservation.

Arefine, A Master's holder in Zoology working in Bangladesh

A Journey into Herpetology

Arefine's journey into the world of snakes began with her graduation in zoology. Her initiative, the Kunduli Foundation, focuses on snake conservation and community outreach programs, aiming to bridge the gap between scientific understanding and public perception. Beyond her current work, Arefine is an advocate for involving more women in herpetology and has ambitious plans to pursue higher studies in systematic biology.

The Unsung Heroes of Our Ecosystem

Why is snake conservation so crucial? As Arefine explains, snakes are integral to the environment, playing a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. Yet, fear and misconceptions often lead to their persecution. Arefine emphasizes the critical need to educate people, especially those without a scientific background, using simple and accessible language to convey the immense importance of these reptiles.

Encountering Snakes: Do's and Don'ts

For many, a snake encounter can be a frightening experience. Arefine offers practical advice: if you come across a snake, stand still. Do not run or walk, as sudden movements can startle the snake. While certain species, like the Checkered Keelback, might chase if disturbed, most snakes will move away if left alone. Arefine highlights her approach to educating marginalized communities, where she uses straightforward, non-scientific language to deliver crucial messages about safe interactions.

Pioneering in a Challenging Field

Working in conservation, especially with often-feared animals, comes with its own set of challenges. Arefine candidly shared her initial experiences, which included discrimination and backlash. However, her unwavering determination to continue her work eventually led to acceptance. She vividly describes her efforts to reach out to marginalized communities, from street beggars to farmers, patiently teaching them about snakes in a way they can truly comprehend.

Unraveling the Mystery: Venomous vs. Poisonous

A common point of confusion is the difference between venomous and poisonous snakes. Arefine clarifies this scientifically: venomous snakes deliver their impact internally, affecting red blood cells, nervous systems, or other cells, typically through a venomous bite. Poisonous snakes, on the other hand, affect the skin surface without envenomation. She provided examples from her region, like the Red-necked Keelback snake, whose touch can cause skin irritation or blisters. Arefine stresses the importance of educating people about these distinctions to reduce misconceptions and unwarranted fear. (i.e.: The Red-necked Keelback snake is both venomous and poisonous, but they rarely bite people.)

A Vision for the Future: Educating Mothers, Empowering Women

Arefine's future goals in herpetology are ambitious and inspiring. She plans to pursue a PhD in systematic biology, aiming to create a significant positive impact on society and reduce snake bite incidents. A core part of her vision is to launch a "mother-based initiative," focusing on educating children and mothers about snakes and their ecological importance. Furthermore, in her role as a country representative for Women in Wildlife, Arefine is committed to supporting other women who aspire to work in wildlife conservation.

Spreading Awareness about snakes in Communities in Bangladesh

Overcoming Hurdles and Seeking Support

Arefine shared her initial struggles, including facing bullying and societal conservatism. She underscored the importance of taking small steps and exercising patience in gaining acceptance and support. Arefine believes that ongoing support is crucial to effectively spread awareness about the correct immediate actions to take after a snake bite, emphasizing what not to do: no eating, no sleeping, and no running.

Immediate Actions After a Snake Bite

For anyone unfortunately experiencing a snake bite, Arefine offers clear and critical advice: stay still, remember the three don'ts (do not take food/water, run/walk fast, or sleep), immobilize the affected area if the hospital is far away (only for neurotoxic snakes, e.g., kraits), and seek medical help as quickly as possible. She provided practical steps, such as using two stick and cloth to create a crepe bandage for a hand or leg bite if the snakebite incident area and the hospital are far apart. The key, she stresses, is to avoid movement, which can prevent the venom from spreading rapidly.

Arefine's dedication to snake conservation is truly inspiring. She shares additional tips that may help during a snakebite:

1. Remove anything tight from around the bitten part of the body (e.g., rings, anklets, bracelets), as these can cause harm if swelling occurs.

2. Reassure the victim. Many snake bites are caused by non-venomous snakes. Even after most venomous snake bites, the risk of death is not immediate. 

3. Immobilize the person completely. Splint the limb to keep it still. Use a makeshift stretcher to carry the person to a place where transport is available to take them to a health facility. Never use a tight arterial tourniquet.

4. For low-resource settings: If someone is bitten by a snake, place a stick or spoon on both sides of the affected area, leaving a small gap from the actual bite site. Then wrap the area using a cotton cloth or gauze bandage about three fingers wide, applying it like a crepe bandage. This will help immobilize the area.

However, it is important to remember that the bandage should not be tied too tightly. This procedure should be followed only when the distance to the hospital is considerable. If the hospital is nearby, there is no need for bandaging. Just focus on getting to the hospital AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

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