Wildlife in the Workplace
WKC recently sponsored a networking evening with the Lighthouse Club Abu Dhabi, titled ‘Hidden Treasures of the UAE: Wildlife in the Workplace’
The evening was a resounding success and based on the feedback received, enjoyed by all. WKC’s Dubai office manager and terrestrial ecologist, Josh Smithson, gave a fascinating insight into some of the lesser known aspects of wildlife in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Josh then went on to introduce two local species of snake to the audience, backed up by some very interesting facts and figures into the various species of snake found in the UAE and the wider Gulf region.
After giving the audience a chance to see and handle the snakes, Josh went on to give a live first aid demonstration and some of the do’s and don’ts in the event that anyone were to be bitten by one of the many venomous species of snake found in the UAE.
Lighthouse Club Abu Dhabi President posing with his new cold-blooded friend!
First Aid Demonstration
The content was of particular relevance to the Lighthouse Foundation audience given that many of them are involved in the construction industry; construction sites can make an attractive refuge for our cold-blooded friends and as such encounters with workers, by both venomous and non-venomous species, are a frequent occurrence. Being able to calmly, quickly and professionally move snakes out of harm’s way, and away from potentially dangerous human contact, is a very important skill to possess in many Middle East industries involving outdoor work.
Not only does this type of event allow us to showcase our ecological expertise, and perhaps also some of our lesser known services such as snake handling training courses, the proceeds of the event all go to a great cause – to those suffering from the recent devastating events in Nepal.
Richard Palmer congratulating one of the raffle winners – ‘all in a good cause!’
In our 50 year history, this is a first for The Club!Definitely one of the most interesting presentations I’ve been too, and the snakes were so pretty!
A tough act to follow for The Lighthouse Club Abu Dhabi…
A great snakeholder engagement event!
