About us
OUR MISSION
Here At The Serpent Center, we are dedicated to changing the way people think about snakes...
With over 44 years of experience with venomous reptiles and a flawless safety record, and with no bites, no envenomations, and no escapes — I am a trusted figure in both safety and education in this field.
The Serpent Center Established in 2020
The Serpent Center offers rigorous training in safe snake handling, designed to meet the needs of those working in wildlife management, emergency response, and related fields.
I have taught first responders such as Horry County Police Department, South Dakota Fish and Game various Fire Departments, and even the MARSOC Fast Marine Special Operators SERE program.
These training programs equip participants with practical skills and safety protocols that are essential for working around venomous species.
Venom Central Science Established in 1999
Venom Central Science is our research and conservation arm. We are instrumental in producing and supplying healthy, captive-born specimens for zoos, educational institutions, and research facilities globally. We focus on both native and exotic locale-specific venomous snakes that are medically important, which offspring are necessary and used for facilitating critical research in venom applications for medical therapies, pharmaceutical developments, and other therapeutic advancements.
Exhibits for the Public Opened in 2023
Additionally, we offer educational classes and invite visitors for private tours, where they gain insights into reptile behavior, safety, and the ecological importance of these animals.
5-star ratings
Read what our customers say about us
G3n3tixnerd
2 years ago
The Serpent Center is a rare and beautiful gem! Willy and Deena work hard to give the absolute best care to their animals, great experiences for their customers and impeccable educational classes. Willy is a wealth of knowledge, I genuinely learn from him every time I am with him. Deena is an organizational and creative wizard! Despite their incredible professionalism, they are both very easy going. I can just sit and chat with them for hours! I am so grateful for Willy, Deena and all the incredible work they do through The Serpent Center!
Vanessa Roach
2 years ago
Willy and Deena could not have been more accommodating or welcoming. We booked a private tour and loved every minute. The facility is so well kept, absolutely professional. The work they are doing with “medically significant” venomous snakes, is fascinating and world-changing. The experience my son (10) had, was more than we could have wished for. Thank you both!
Vivian Blanco
2 years ago
This place is a gem for snakes lovers.
We had a private tour and what a treat we received! We even got to see when two snakes were fed!! Both of the owners, William and Deena, were impressively knowledgeable, super friendly and making sure we got the best experience. Thank you both!
We will definitely come again.
Bruce Moore
2 years ago
I've been fascinated by snakes for most of my life and I've visited a lot of "roadside snake zoos" but these guys were a huge surprise. They are absolutely the real deal. They not only have a number of different species on display from all over the world, they are the most knowledgeable people I've ever met.
Deena and especially William spent well over an hour with us answering questions about the snakes on display but also about snakes in the area. They also train first responders on snake removal and bite treatment. They extract snake venom for pharmasutical research and they are breeders. All of this in the little town of Vance.
If you are interested in snakes or only snake curious, it would be well worth your time to visit.
Logan Mroz
2 years ago
From a mom of a 4 year old reptile loving boy who has been to many reptile exhibits, this one definitely was #1 for both of us! We made the drive from Charleston and plan on going again with my husband to show him. Definitely the coolest snakes we’ve seen and the owners were so welcoming and knowledgeable.
Mr Sig Sauer 45
2 years ago
Michel Oviedo
2 years ago
Tori Bumgarner
2 years ago
Absolutely AMAZING, COOL, UNIQUE, and EDUCATIONAL place! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
This was such a great experience! The owners are incredibly knowledgeable, articulate, caring, and amazing at what they do. Both fun and educational. So many cool fun facts, were able to answer every question I had and then were also able to expand on them with more answers and fun facts! This guy is a truly an expert. Got to see him feed 2 vipers, touched shedded snake skin, and had a huge snake draped around my shoulders!!! (im afraid of snakes that means something) Such an amazing experience has been the highlight of my vacation!
James Corley
2 years ago
My family visited this afternoon and had a great experience! The owners took time to talk with us, explaining features of the different snakes and a unique turtle they have as well as answering questions about practical snake safety for South Carolina. I also noticed how clean and well kept the enclosures were. Sharing one picture to show the quality of the species they have.
elizabeth chisolm
2 years ago
Out in the middle of nowhere,but absolutely worth the drive.Such a unique educational experience with some of the most beautiful snakes I have ever seen, we came across it by accident and fell in love with the educators who own it. They are so passionate not only for the advancement of educating people on why snakes are beautiful and special, but how they have benefited us as well. We learned so much and cannot wait to go back. The species change out, so you always see "someone new".
Robert Christian
3 years ago
Whether you are a life long reptile lover or someone who is just curious, the Serpent Center is a MUST SEE! Incredibly beautiful displays with really unique snakes on display. Learn about some of the world's most deadly and beautiful snakes! The owner has a wealth of knowledge! Check out the Serpent Center and fall in love with venomous snakes from around the world.
Bailey Larmon
3 years ago
My 8 year old niece and I had an absolute blast yesterday on our private tour of The Serpent Center! Husband and wife team Deena and Willy blew me away with their kindness, professionalism, hospitality, expertise and passion. The first thing I said to them walking in was “I’m terrified of snakes” but they welcomed us regardless and quickly and made me feel at ease.
Deena and Willy both went above and beyond in several ways to give my niece a personalized and exciting experience that made her feel incredibly special; truly VIP treatment! They are located just an hour from downtown Columbia in the small town of Vance. I felt we really got great value for the cost of the private tour and give them a 10/10 recommendation!