21/05/2024
Snakes are a farmers friend π
One thing that I love about farming and agriculture is the intricate way in which the ecosystem works. It is fascinating to see how different species of animals impact our ability to farm and grow food. While many people may have an aversion to snakes, they are truly a farmer's best friend. Snakes play a vital role in protecting crops from predators like rodents and other pests such as insects and spiders, making them an integral part of the farming ecosystem. Snakes control the pest populations, such as rodents, that can damage crops, leading to healthier fields and potentially higher yields
By learning more about snakes, I hope that I can help change the way that people think about them. While some may still find them intimidating, the information provided should help to humanize these creatures and show that they are not as frightening as they may seem.
Farming has been a journey of self-discovery and growth, and one of the most significant challenges I have faced is overcoming my fear of these creatures. However, as I delved deeper into the world of agriculture, I realized that these creatures are not enemies, but allies in my quest to create a sustainable and thriving food system. By embracing them and recognizing their importance in the ecosystem, I have been able to transform my fear into understanding and my doubts into determination.
~ Farrmer P π«Άπ½
Did you know π€
Ever wondered why snakes might give you an eerie feeling? They donβt have eyelids! This means they donβt blink and have to sleep with their eyes wide open. Instead of eyelids they have a thin membrane attached to each eye to protect them.
Fun Fact π€
They have a very big family
According to the latest count, there are 3,789 snake species, making them the second largest group of reptiles after lizards. They are divided into 30 different families and numerous subfamilies. Australia is home to approximately 140 of them.
Symbolic π€©
Historically, serpents and snakes represent fertility or a creative life force. As snakes shed their skin through sloughing, they are symbols of rebirth, transformation, and healing. The ouroboros is a symbol of eternity and continual renewal of life.
Additional Information
Types of snakes youβre likely to find on a farm:
Garter snakeοΏ½ are one of the most common snakes to find on farms, so much so that people often mispronounce their name as βgardenβ snakes! They are typically too small to eat rodents, and like to feast on slugs, crickets, earthworms, grasshoppers, and frogs.
Black rat snakeοΏ½ with their long, thick bodies, black rat snakes may look intimidating, however they are completely harmless! They are excellent climbers, and may even make their way to the rafters of your barn to hunt down rats and mice.
KingsnakeοΏ½ like rat snakes, kingsnakes like to feed on rodents; unique to this species, however, is their propensity to eat other snakes β especially the venomous ones! Everythingreptiles.com says that βkingsnakes are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day and sleep at night.β This makes kingsnakes a great pet (although you should buy from a reputable breeder or rescue and never try to catch a wild snake)!
Venomous snakesοΏ½ are members of the pit viper family; which one youβre most likely to encounter depends on your location in the United States.
In the West and Midwest, your primary concern will be rattlesnakes. In the dryer regions of the West, rattlesnakes are often found on the outskirts of farms, where food and water (from irrigation systems) are likely to be present. Hay bales are often home to large numbers of rats, which is like a buffet for reptile predators.
Along the East Coast, youβre more likely to encounter a copperhead. These snakes, known for their copper-red colored heads, are one of the most commonly seen species in the United States. Like rattlesnakes, they follow their food source and will be attracted to rodents that call your farmland home.
Source: http://AGDAILY.com
My Simple Recipe of the Week π
I canβt even express how easy it is to prepare this wholesome and beautiful meal.
Season your favorite pieces of chicken to your liking, to enhance the flavors, you may use onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, rosemary, salt and pepper, and then drizzle with olive oil.
Cut fresh broccoli. Slice sweet potatoes. Drizzle them with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
Place all ingredients on preheated baking sheet. Place in oven at 375. Cook 15 to 20 minutes or until chicken is done. You may serve with rice or eat alone.
Enjoy! π
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