Thailand’s Most Famous Snake Catcher Pinyo Pukpinyo Safely Removes Bangkok’s Slithering Intruders

NY Times World · 2026-11-01
Thailand’s Most Famous Snake Catcher Pinyo Pukpinyo Safely Removes Bangkok’s Slithering Intruders

Pinyo Pukpinyo has earned a reputation as Thailand’s most famous snake catcher, responding to calls across Bangkok to remove snakes from homes, offices, and other unexpected places. Rather than killing the reptiles, Pukpinyo safely captures and relocates them, a practice that has made him a local hero and a viral sensation. His work highlights the frequent encounters between humans and wildlife in one of Southeast Asia’s busiest cities. As urban development encroaches on natural habitats, snakes increasingly seek shelter in human spaces, making Pukpinyo’s humane approach both practical and compassionate. His calls range from common pythons to venomous cobras, and each rescue requires skill and calm under pressure. By choosing non-lethal methods, Pukpinyo not only protects the snakes but also educates the public about coexistence. Bangkok residents now know that when a snake appears, one man will come to the rescue—without harming the animal. His growing fame underscores a broader need for wildlife management in expanding cities.