With its wild, lush wetlands, Thailand is home to numerous species of snakes: pythons, cobras, and kraits, to name just three. While many of the country’s snake farms are not what you would call prime examples of animal rights at work, the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute is way more ethical than most. Two hundred species of snakes, including king cobras, are on display, and there’s a facility that produces anti-venom as well as an animal toxin clinic for treating people bitten by other poisonous critters. Visitors can also attend snake-handling performances in the outdoor amphitheater and observe the snake milking process at daily public demonstrations.
A Yellow Python in a Tree.
Andy Selinger/ age fotostock
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An Ethical Way to Survey Thailand's Serpents
With its wild, lush wetlands, Thailand is home to numerous species of snakes: pythons, cobras, and kraits, to name just three. While many of the country’s snake farms are not what you would call prime examples of animal rights at work, the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute is way more ethical than most. Two hundred species of snakes, including king cobras, are on display, and there’s a facility that produces anti-venom as well as an animal toxin clinic for treating people bitten by other poisonous critters. Visitors can also attend snake-handling performances in the outdoor amphitheater and observe the snake milking process at daily public demonstrations.
Vipers and Venom at the Snake Farm
Located in the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, the snake farm is a great activity to check out if you are in the Sukhumvit area of Bangkok. We attended the live snake handling show (held weekdays at 2:30pm, weekends at 11am) where viewers are introduced to various deadly snakes of Thailand, from the King Cobra to the Burmese Python, along with fun facts and tips. The center also houses a snake exhibit and informational museum. Entertaining and educational! Snake milking demonstrations also happen weekdays at 11am. Entrance fee 200 baht.
