Herping is the activity of searching for and observing reptiles and amphibians in their natural habitats. This can include activities such as hiking in search of snakes, lizards, and frogs. Enthusiasts often engage in herping for recreational purposes, scientific research, or conservation efforts, and it can be done in various environments, including forests, wetlands, and deserts.

For SUMECO, herping is the most common activity carried out by our team in Bukit Lawang. Honestly, the process of searching for snakes is entirely based on chance. In my 12 years of experience in Bukit Lawang, I’ve discovered many different species. You can herp in Bukit Lawang both during the day and at night. Although most species of snakes are nocturnal, our king cobra stays diurnal, and a spitting cobra is often spotted during the day based on our rescue call time.

Some most wanted species, such as the king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah), red-headed krait (Bungarus flaviceps), Sumatran spitting cobra (Naja sumatrana), and blue Malayan coral snake (Calliophis bivirgatus), are difficult to spot, but definitely, they are found in Bukit Lawang and sometimes around our accommodation. The most commonly found species in Bukit Lawang is Wagler’s pit viper (Tropidolaemus wagleri). Herping in Bukit Lawang requires our patience; our area is huge and connected to Gunung Leuser National Park, so there must be opportunities out there, but once again, it is about luck. Aside from herping, we also offer jungle trekking to see orangutans and other wildlife.

SUMECO has rescued hundreds of snakes in and around Bukit Lawang, always putting safety and proper handling first. Our snake rescue program exists solely for the benefit of ecology and human safety. The tourism activity associated with the herpetology study will undoubtedly contribute significantly to our operational efforts on the ground. SUMECO receives numerous calls from villagers who may require our assistance with snake removal. It is critical that we are prepared to respond quickly to the call.

We always offered education to those who needed a basic knowledge of snakes, as the snake has become a strong part to the Gunung Leuser National Park ecosystem, our collected data has shown there are many species of snakes found inside and outside Gunung Leuser National Park as the natural element of its biodiversity.

As 99 percent of tourists who come to Bukit Lawang for jungle trekking to see Sumatran orangutans, SUMECO has offered a new opportunity to learn about serpents (snakes). Beginners who wanted to learn about snakes will be assisted by local experts (local herpetologists). Having a basic knowledge of snakes through jungle trekking with us is mainly expected.

Snakes are very important animals for their ecosystems. This is because snakes are predators and prey in the food chain. In the rice field food chain especially in Bukit Lawang, the presence of snakes is necessary to maintain the rat population and to provide food for predators that prey on snakes. If a food chain is imbalanced or interrupted, then one of its ecosystems will become overpopulated or uncontrolled. Snakes are classified as tertiary consumers. In this role, the snake preys on creatures classified as secondary consumers. Secondary consumers, such as mice and frogs, eat herbivorous species (plant eaters).

The snake then becomes prey for predators or consumers, who rise to the top (apex). Snakes are preyed upon by a variety of species, including groups of birds of prey such as owls and eagles. There are also snakes that devour snakes due to their greater level. Furthermore, weasels and mongooses are terrestrial animals that feed on snakes. If these top predators or consumers are overhunted by humans or have an imbalanced population, holes in food chains are probable.

It’s important to do the right things to make sure you have a safe and enjoyable herping (the activity of looking for reptiles and amphibians) trip in Bukit Lawang. These steps will help you enjoy herping more while also being kind to animals and the environment.

1. Herping Spots: Look for good places to go herping, like nature reserves, wetlands, or forests. Check your area’s rules about watching wildlife.
2. Know the Species: Learn about the amphibians and reptiles that live in the area. Find out where they live, how they act, and if they are protected.
3. Gather Equipment: Get the necessary gear ready, such as, field guides or apps to help with identification, a flashlight or headlamp for hunting at night, and a camera for taking pictures
4. How to Dress Properly: Wear the right clothes and shoes, like long pants, sturdy boots, and an outerwear that fits the weather. You might want to bring bug spray and sunscreen.
5. Safety Tips: Bring a first-aid kit and make sure you know who to call in case of an emergency. Keep an eye out for possible dangers, like poisonous plants or snakes.
6. Plan Your Trip: In Bukit Lawang, most snake species are more active at night or during certain times of the year. Make plans for your trip.
7. Ethical Herping: It means following the rules of responsible wildlife observation, like not disturbing habitats, leaving no trace, and following the law in your area.
8. Take a Responsible Guide: If you want to be safe, learn more, and have more fun, you might want to go with someone else.