A percepção popular sobre serpentes e a importância da educação ambiental: um estudo em Ituiutaba-MG

Abstract

According to the World Health Organization, snakebite accidents are categorized as “neglected tropical diseases,” affecting 5.4 million people annually. However, in Brazil, there are around 200 fatal cases per year caused by snakebite accidents. In 2023, all notifications of species responsible for snakebite accidents totaled 28,067, with 124 deaths in the same year. In other words, there is a greater chance of being a victim of another human being than of a snakebite accident in the country. However, the public’s perception of snakes is completely biased by fear and lack of information. Therefore, research measuring public knowledge and environmental education projects are of utmost importance to mitigate accidents and prevent biodiversity loss. Participants were asked whether they had ever encountered snakes and whether they had had experiences with them. Fifty-three reported having seen snakes in their homes, and 63 participants had some kind of experience with snakes, representing almost half of all respondents. Most positive experiences occurred among university students, while the highest concentration of negative experiences was among children. When asked about fear of snakes, the predominant answer was “yes” in all groups, attributing negative characteristics to these animals such as persecution, ability to bite, bad luck, among other terms, as well as myths. Among the myths reported, notable ones included snakes stealing milk from breastfeeding mothers, persecuting relatives, or bringing bad luck associated with this group of animals. Regarding extension activities, in the children’s group, biological material proved to be an extremely effective tool for learning, as well as interventions. Opportunities to answer questions and discussion circles were very well received among the adult audience. The curiosity of both adults and children toward snakes was also noted. Therefore, it is extremely important to inform the population about the diversity of snakes in the region, demystify superstitions, and provide guidance on how to deal with potentially dangerous species. Socio-environmental outreach activities are very well received and can greatly contribute to public learning.