The animal’s name itself is enough to instill fear into anyone, but the business that is associated with snake farming is very lucrative. Yes really, without being political, this article will share the reasons why the snake farming business is quite luxurious. The business itself also has its pros and cons.
Snake farming is the practice of rearing snake species for commercial purposes. The business is highly profitable for anyone who dares to venture into the business. However, there are a lot of risks that are associated with practicing the business.
If you ignore the risks associated with the business, you are most likely on your merry way to becoming a multi-millionaire. The business itself is illegal in many countries around the world which is why there are very few snake farmers.
Why is Snake farming lucrative?
First and foremost, snakes provide snake venom which is in high demand globally. Pharmaceutical companies spend millions of dollars annually purchasing snake venom. 1 gram of snake venom can get you between $800 – $3,000 (Kshs. 92,000 to Kshs. 348,000). To get this amount, one would need to have at least 4 snakes. The venom must be stored at very low temperatures around -20 degrees.
But what is snake venom used for? Snake venom is used for various researches including finding the antidotes to snake bites.
The pharmaceutical companies also use the gallbladders, livers, and skin from the snakes to create nutritional supplements which are sold to customers in Japan, South Korea, America and Europe. In addition to that, snakes are eaten by a good percentage of the world’s population.
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Skin from snakes such as the Python is used in the fashion industry for the production of different fashion items. It is worth noting that these items are not as cheap as one would imagine.
Tips on how to start a snake farm business
- Carry out some research on business permits and have the legal documents before strating out.
- Find a suitable location to carry out the business – The most important thing to consider in this is the premise’s safety and the safety of the people around. It is best done in isolated areas with temperatures ranging between 24-29 degrees.
- Acquire the snakes – You could buy them from snake dealers. Ensure to do your homework and find out the lucrative species.
- Feeding the snakes – Snakes eat different types of food, but they are neither herbivores nor omnivores, so do not feed them greens and expect them to eat them. Snakes are mandatorily classified as carnivores.
- Cleaning – Ensure that you keep the snake farms clean at all times to ensure high productivity.
- Marketing – The market is so big you will even be astonished. From pharmaceutical industries to the fashion industries, zoos to global restaurants serving snake dishes. Pharmaceutical companies are where you will make a lot of money.
Precautions to consider
Snake farming is very profitable and like any business, it has its demerits.
Snake farms are ALWAYS prone to fatal accidents!
- Do not let children near snake farms.
- Ensure you have an anti-venom ready for every snake species available at the farm
- Wear protective clothing, gloves and boots when entering the farm to minimize the chances of snake bites going into the skin
