Snake rescuer’s YouTube channel grows from strength to strength
Sunningdale resident Jason Arnold started his YouTube channel in 2021 and has already attracted more than 84 000 subscribers.
WITH more than 84 000 subscribers, Jason Arnold’s YouTube page has become a great way to gain some insight into the daily life of a snake rescuer, especially when he gets up close and personal with some of South Africa’s most venomous snakes in tight spaces.
The Sunningdale resident, who started his channel in 2021 (Jason Arnold-Snake Handler), said he hopes his page becomes a valuable educational resource for people to learn more about the snakes found in and around Durban.
His daughter, Emily, has also begun making regular appearances alongside her dad, and helps with filming and offering an extra hand when needed.
Arnold uses only his cellphone and edits all the videos himself.
“Being able to share my knowledge and experience of snakes, with people, helps people to be less fearful of snakes,” Arnold explained. “Education is a very important part of what I do – being able to literally show people on my channel that Black Mambas (and all snakes) do not attack or chase after you. They are actually extremely peaceful animals that avoid people wherever possible.
“The most rewarding part of snake rescuing, is obviously bringing massive relief to the families that call me. But also setting the snakes free into beautiful, scenic and peaceful areas, which is very good for my soul.”
Being an ex-reservist policeman and working with snakes for close to 30 years, one thing becomes evident when watching Arnold, how comfortable he is with handling and rescuing highly-venomous snakes.
Arnold said the growth of his YouTube channel has also seen more recognition for him when he is driving between rescues.
“I’ve definitely noticed more recognition since starting the channel. People often come up to me in public areas and want to have a photo with me or just want to meet and say hi.”
Watching videos on his channel is also a great way to support the work he does.
For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook ,X or Instagram. You an also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here
