Reviewed by Nilesh Siriwardane and Shahrukh Fairooz (Web Content Team)
On the 14th of March 2025, the Wildlife Society of Trinity College organised an exciting and educational workshop titled, “Slither & Sense,” at the Napier Hall. This unique event, attended by 52 students from Grades 6 to 11, provided an extensive exploration to the often-misinterpreted realm of snakes.
The workshop was conducted by a distinguished wildlife enthusiast and conservationist from the Youth Exploration Society, Mr. Sandeepa Siriwardana along with Mr. Arosha Withanage. His engaging presentation captivated the audience as he shared valuable knowledge on various species of snakes, and their ecological importance.
A major highlight of the event was the introduction to some of Sri Lanka’s fascinating snakes and the opportunity the audience had to observe live specimens.
- A strikingly beautiful yet highly venomous snake, The Sri Lankan Green Pit Viper, commonly found in Sri Lanka’s dense forests blends seamlessly into the environment with its vibrant colours.
- Among the most dangerous snakes in Sri Lanka, The Russell’s Viper (Thith Polanga) is infamous for its potent venom and its history in a significant number of snakebite incidents.
- Easily recognizable by its cat-like eyes, The endemic Sri Lankan Cat Snake (Nidi Mapila) is a mildly venomous, nocturnal species which is a true work of art.
- Non-venomous but equally captivating, the Trinket Snake (Kata Kaluwa) is well-known for its unique and beautiful patterns, making it a favorite among snake enthusiasts.
One of the most thrilling moments of the workshop was, when the python was presented exclusively for the session, giving students a rare opportunity to observe it up close. The experts skillfully handled the snake while educating the audience about its habitat and behavior.
Students were particularly thrilled by the live demonstrations, where they observed the behavior and movement of these snakes. They even got the chance to touch these majestic creatures, not forgetting that safety measures were strictly followed, ensuring both the audience and the snakes remained unharmed. The students sat at a safe distance when the majestic Cobra was taken out. It hissed and slithered, obviously alarmed and disturbed by the wooden floor and the environment. Members of YES have treated a majority of these snakes for wounds and accidents they had encountered after intruding into homes or home gardens. These innocent creatures will be eventually released to the wild when they are strong enough to be independent once again.
One of the key takeaways from the workshop was the importance of conservation and coexistence. The speakers emphasized that while some snakes are venomous, they play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance in Sri Lanka, by helping to eliminate harmful pests that encroach cultivations. The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where students had the opportunity to clarify their doubts, curiosity and replenish their knowledge about snake behavior, habitats, and conservation efforts.
As the workshop wrapped up, it was clear that the Wildlife Society’s initiative was a success, leaving students with newfound respect and appreciation for snakes. The enthusiasm and curiosity displayed by the participants proved that this workshop was not just an educational session, but an unforgettable experience that changed perspectives on these fascinating reptiles. The Wildlife Society is incredibly grateful for the guidance and support of Mr.Wasana Dissanayake: Director of TCK’s Co-curricular initiative, as this achievement wouldn’t have been a possibility without his invaluable advice. A special thank you goes to the Committee of the Wild Life Society of TCK, for meticulously organising the programme within a short period of time.
