Communities and charities can transform rattlesnake roundups
into events that make money for organizers, sponsors and
charities without harming snakes, humans or the environment. If
any meaningful progress is to take place toward the reform of
roundups and rattlesnake commercialization, however, animal
protection groups, biologists and land managers must work
cooperatively to launch public education campaigns and to build
support for legislative change.
A reform movement in San Antonio, Florida, progressively
transformed its rattlesnake roundup event into a rattlesnake
festival. The shift started with compassionate
thoughts—concerns for the welfare of the animals used in the
event and the environmental message imparted by it. Soon
collecting snakes was discontinued, as was collecting and
racing gopher tortoises. The new event races mechanical gopher
tortoises, which are guided down a track with a rope and pulley
system. This change in focus has done nothing to reduce the
amount of money earned by the festival. The popular, two-day
event held in 1998 brought in more than $30,000. Festival
organizers have attracted a variety of activities, and they
prohibit the sale of wildlife products.
Efforts such as these demonstrate that money can be
generated from events without harming animals or forming ties
with the rattlesnake skin and parts trade. It is clear that
rattlesnake roundups, as traditionally conducted, must end. A
civilized society must reject frivolous, destructive uses of
wildlife, opting instead for a philosophy based on humane
stewardship for all creatures.
Some things you can do:
- Contact your state or local regulatory agency and ask it
to put an end to rattlesnake roundups.
- Send a letter to the editor and let the public know the
truth behind these events.
- Urge sponsors to withdraw their support.
- Alert beneficiaries of rattlesnake roundups to the
dangers they pose.
