As the Year of the Snake approaches, wildlife photographer Adam Francis reflects on his journey and passion for the natural world. Originally from suburban Virginia, Francis discovered his love for nature while exploring forests as a child. After a career in international finance spanning New York, Shanghai, and Tokyo, he settled in Hong Kong, a city that rekindled his connection to wildlife.
Hong Kong’s unique mix of urbanity and biodiversity fascinates Francis. “You can be dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant and, 15 minutes later, find yourself amidst nature encountering creatures like bamboo pit vipers or barking deer,” he says. Its subtropical location and varied landscapes create diverse ecosystems teeming with life.
In 2021, Francis published A Field Guide to the Snakes of Hong Kong, showcasing his nocturnal wildlife photography. Its second edition, released in 2024, features updates on species, taxonomy, and Hong Kong’s natural history. Dubbed the “snake bible,” the book’s practical design and vivid close-ups aim to change public perceptions about snakes, which are often misunderstood and feared.
With over 40 snake species in Hong Kong, Francis highlights the bamboo pit viper as the one most commonly encountered. Despite being responsible for most recorded venomous bites, he reassures that fatalities are virtually nonexistent due to effective medical treatments. Other notable species include the elusive Burmese python, protected under local ordinances and vital to the ecosystem as apex predators.
Francis stresses the importance of snakes in balancing ecosystems, pointing out their varied diets, including rodents, bugs, and even other snakes. Misconceptions about snakes, he explains, often stem from cultural myths and fear, though most species are non-aggressive and avoid human interaction.
For those lucky enough to encounter a snake in the wild, Francis advises remaining calm and observing from a safe distance. “Snakes are fascinating creatures with unique behaviors and striking colors. Watching them can be a special experience,” he says.
As the Year of the Snake unfolds, Francis hopes people will embrace a deeper understanding of these remarkable reptiles and their role in nature, creating goodwill and positive change in the process.
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