What we do

• Our Snake Education and Community Awareness Program (SECAP) is an initiative born from the partnership between Save the Snakes and Hoedspruit Reptile Centre. Our aim is to mitigate human-snake conflict and promote the conservation of snakes through education and outreach. Our goal is to engage and educate learners, healthcare workers and members of rural communities about snakes and snakebite, create more awareness about snakes that are found in the greater Kruger to Canyon Biosphere Region, and how we can live in harmony with them. Yet, this is merely one approach we take towards reptile conservation.
• Our free program for the rehabilitation and release of injured reptiles invites the public to bring us injured wild reptiles in need of care. Our veterinarian and zoo staff expertly rehabilitate these animals until they are ready to be returned to the wild. Renowned for our expertise in reptile medical care, we frequently receive injured reptiles from other centers unable to provide the necessary treatment.
• We often provide care for reptiles that have been surrendered by individuals who are no longer able to look after them.
• Every year, we educate thousands of school children through scheduled programs at our facility. These children, hailing from rural areas, learn from our curatorial staff about reptile-related myths, how to react when encountering a venomous animal at home, and the steps to take if someone is bitten. Our guiding principle is 'Conservation Through Education and Research,' and we believe that educating young minds is the most effective method to engage with communities.
• The Hoedspruit Reptile Centre offers a variety of training programs, including sessions for anti-poaching units, field guides, the general public, and veterinarians or veterinary students. Additionally, volunteers are welcome to attend any of our courses at no additional cost during their stay with us. 

Who can join? 

The volunteer program at Hoedspruit Reptile Centre provides a unique opportunity for individuals to make a meaningful difference while gaining invaluable experience in wildlife conservation. Whether aspiring conservationists, students, or nature enthusiasts, volunteers leave with a deeper appreciation for reptiles and a sense of fulfillment from contributing to their protection and survival in the wild.

What can volunteers expect from us at Hoedspruit Reptile Centre?

• meals & accommodation
• working with experienced professionals and participating in everything that we do daily
• training on reptile husbandry and handling by industry experts
• all equipment needed for you do be able to perform your daily duties

What we expect

Students assist with the general day to day care, husbandry and maintenance of all the animals in the Centre. This will include tasks such as feeding the animals and maintaining enclosures. Students are also expected to interact with guests at the Centre, and to help educate them on the importance of reptiles in a natural ecosystem. There is very infrequently a dull moment at Hoedspruit Reptile Centre as exciting new challenges present themselves on an almost daily basis. Whilst students are encouraged to have fun, they must remember that during their time at Hoedspruit Reptile Centre they are not on holiday. They are volunteering at the Centre to educate themselves and benefit from an excellent facility and program.