13 October 2026 · By Fenne

Working towards a safe future for people and snakes alike

Suriname is known for its vast rainforests, winding rivers and remarkable biodiversity. But what do you do when a snake suddenly turns up in the garden of the place you’re staying? For a lot of people that’s a fright. For Snake Patrol Suriname it’s a chance to bring people and animals closer together.

Who we are

We are Snake Patrol Suriname (SPS), a non-profit organisation working towards a society where people and snakes can safely live alongside one another. Since we were founded in 2020 we’ve worked to protect snakes, to build knowledge about these remarkable animals, and to prevent unnecessary conflict between people and nature.

Our mission is simple: to replace fear with knowledge, panic with understanding, and the killing of snakes with safe, humane solutions.

Suriname is rich in snake species. From colourful tree boas to the formidable green anaconda, all of these animals have a role in the ecosystem. Yet snakes are often misunderstood, and killed out of fear. We want to change that. With every snake we help and every conversation we have, we take a step towards a better society for people and animals alike.

What happens when someone comes across a snake?

Picture it: you wake up, walk out into your garden and suddenly see a snake by the front door. What do you do? For many people the first reaction is fear. Some try to kill the snake themselves, while others don’t know who to call. Fortunately, Snake Patrol Suriname is here.

Relocation: safely back into the wild

When someone reports a snake in a place where it may pose a risk, our volunteers can assess the situation and, if necessary, help remove the animal safely. If relocation is both necessary and responsible, we try to move the snake to a suitable natural habitat.

Not every snake needs catching or moving, though. If the animal is somewhere safe and can get away on its own, it’s usually best to leave it alone. Alongside protecting people and animals, we think it matters to explain. Which snake is it? Is it dangerous? And how is it best to react if you come across one again? That way an alarming moment immediately becomes a learning one.

Why do snakes matter?

Snakes may not be the first animals you think of on a tropical adventure, but they’re indispensable to a healthy ecosystem.

• They keep nature in balance. Many snake species eat rodents and other small animals, which helps keep those populations in check — something that benefits agriculture and food storage too. They’re also part of the food chain themselves.
• Venomous snakes support medical research and are needed to produce antivenom. They are generally not looking for contact with people.
• Every species has its own role. Biodiversity isn’t only about the animals we find beautiful or appealing. Less popular animals are part of a complex network in which species depend on one another.

That doesn’t mean snakes are harmless. Some species are venomous and can cause serious injury. Respect, knowledge and distance are therefore essential. Our aim isn’t to get everyone handling snakes, but to make sure people know how to deal with these animals safely.

Education for all ages

How do you overcome a fear of something you don’t understand? By learning more about it. We run educational workshops for children, schools, adults and businesses. Through interactive activities, presentations and demonstrations, we introduce participants to the world of snakes. We also provide training for organisations and for people who may encounter snakes in the course of their work, where participants learn to better recognise species and risks, and how to act safely. We want education to be accessible, interesting and enjoyable. Because a child who learns to respect a snake today may grow into someone who actively contributes to conservation tomorrow.

Educational workshops for children

Sneki Oso: discovering, learning and wondering

At Sneki Oso — our snake house at Clevia Park, the name meaning “snake house” in Sranantongo — we bring people into contact with snakes in a particular way. Visitors can learn more about how these animals behave, what role they play in nature, and the many stories and misconceptions that surround them. By introducing people to snakes responsibly and educationally, we hope to turn fear into curiosity and respect. For travellers interested in nature and wildlife, Sneki Oso offers the chance to discover another side of Surinamese biodiversity: the world of animals that so often go misunderstood.

Sneki Oso — our snake house at Clevia Park

Research and awareness around snakebites

Living alongside snakes also means taking the risks seriously. In Suriname there is still relatively little information available about snakebites. How often do they happen? In what circumstances? And what are the consequences for those involved? We want to contribute to a better understanding of snakebites and the conditions in which they occur. More knowledge can help us develop better-targeted guidance and make dealing with snakes safer. Part of that is making sure people know what to do when they encounter a snake, and how to reduce the risks.

Strengthening local communities

Conservation works best when local communities are actively involved. That’s why we commit to sharing knowledge, providing training, and working with the people who come into contact with nature every day. By sharing practical skills and reliable information, we aim to make situations safer for people and animals alike. We believe that protecting Suriname’s biodiversity is a shared responsibility, and that local knowledge, involvement and cooperation are essential to it.

Involving the local community

How can you help as a traveller?

You don’t have to be a biologist, a wildlife photographer or a snake enthusiast to do something for nature. Even if you’d rather keep a safe distance from snakes, you can contribute to our mission.

• Make a donation
  As a non-profit organisation we depend on donations, gifts and sponsors to continue our work. Your contribution helps with things like buying safety equipment, running our activities and organising educational workshops. Large or small, every contribution helps us keep going.
• Visit an educational activity
  Curious about Suriname’s snakes? Ask us about our educational activities. You’ll not only learn more about these fascinating animals, you’ll also contribute directly to our mission.
• Buy our merchandise
  Available at: Dresscode, Readytex, Sutopia, Talking Prints, Clevia Park

Support Snake Patrol

Every contribution keeps the work going. Donate now.

More than merchandise

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Be responsible around wildlife

Come across a snake during your trip in Suriname? Keep your distance, give the animal room to get away, and never try to catch or handle it yourself. If you think the snake poses a danger, contact a knowledgeable local organisation. And remember: not every wild animal needs help. Sometimes the best thing you can do is simply keep your distance and let nature take its course.

The difference between beauty and fear is knowledge.

Snake Patrol Suriname
Fenne van Esseveldt – Chair

🌐 www.snakepatrolsuriname.com
📧 education@snakepatrolsuriname.com
📧 info@snakepatrolsuriname.com