Ideally situated in an area with a high diversity of reptiles, this project’s main objective is the conservation of snakes and other reptiles, as well as amphibians and arachnids; the creatures that usually inflict fear into humans, more often due to myths rather than sound factual knowledge. 

This project is an absolute ‘must-do’ for volunteers who seek an introduction into the world of  reptiles and those who want to deepen their knowledge and experience. With ample opportunity to work hands on with a variety of species, both harmless and venomous, this project comes highly recommended, and will most definitely leave you with a whole new level of  appreciation for these creatures.

As with most fears, the lack of understanding and knowledge are the biggest prejudices reptiles come up against. There is a saying ‘the only good snake is a dead snake’ is still stubbornly instilled in many people’s beliefs and many snakes are persecuted because of it. 

The main objective of this Centre, that was established over 30 years ago, is conservation of reptiles and other species through education, research and training. A large part of the Centre serves as a park where local visitors and tourists can view a variety of both indigenous and exotic reptiles while getting properly educated on the important role reptiles play in nature as well as around our house and in our daily lives. 

The Centre offers courses and training for nature guides and any other persons interested in properly handling snakes and how to deal with potentially risky encounters. Behind the scenes, the Centre offers ‘call outs’ to remove snakes from people’s homes to avoid snakes being killed. They contribute to ongoing research and data collection, offer photographic opportunities and continue to contribute to many well-known movies and documentaries. 

As a volunteer you will be involved in most activities at the Centre during your placement with them. This will give you some insight with regards to the different challenges that reptile conservationists face and how facilities like the Reptile Conservation Centre are important  in bridging the gap between fear and appreciation.

A placement with them will be a massively rewarding experience, allowing for you to gain more experience into the world of reptiles, amphibians and arachnids, while helping the Centre to achieve its goals. 

Daily programme:

Volunteers will be expected to work every day from 8am to 5pm, however leisure time and opportunities to do some extra, optional excursions can be discussed with the curators at the Centre. Lunch is an hour long and is usually taken between 12:00 and 13:00. Volunteers enjoy a very active participation in the daily events at the park, and although there is a daily routine of activities and duties at the Centre, reptiles and wildlife in general tend to have their own agenda and therefore plans might change in an instant to accommodate a ‘call out’ for example. 

Every step of the way, no matter what is happening, one of the curators will be with you talking you through the events, allowing you to participate at your level of experience while providing you with 

valuable knowledge. 

Seasons:

In this part of the world, snakes, reptiles, arachnids, insects and insect relatives are most active during the warm months of the year, being from end of August to end of April and peaking between October and March. The rainy season is usually from the end of November until the end of March.

Besides the increased reptile and insect activity, the bush comes alive after the rains, washing away the dust, allowing fresh greens to grow, migratory birds return, birds build nests and baby animals are born.