Is the Excessive Prevalence of Venomous Snakes in Third World Countries Just Nature or the Judgment of God?

I don't know why, but the various social media networks has decided that I am interested in snakes. No matter what platform I get on, the "For You" reels and "suggested content" are always videos of people messing with snakes. And in these video clips, which, admittedly, I've taken the bait and fed into with my interest as of late, I often see people in third-world countries, near a muddy creek or polluted canal, pulling out a huge venomous snake that could kill this person with one bite.

Here's one example I saw this morning:

So, I don't know if this is overthinking it, but it did get me thinking: What's up with all the snakes in third-world countries? As we look at the natural world, especially in many developing countries, we often find ourselves facing landscapes full of dangers and harsh conditions. Venomous snakes slither through thick underbrush, dangerous animals lurk just out of sight, and creeks and rivers run murky and unclean—littered and full of pollution. It’s a far cry from the well-manicured parks and clear water sources that we see in more developed nations. This raises a question: is nature simply doing its thing, or is there something deeper at play here?

In much of the Western world, we see controlled environments—neatly kept parks, wildlife safely managed, and pristine waterways. On the other hand, in many parts of Africa, Asia, and Latin America, nature seems almost untamed and often downright hostile. Is this just because of environmental and geographical factors, or is there a bigger picture we’re missing? Why do we find these natural hazards predominantly in areas struggling with poverty and underdevelopment?

To those who look deeper, these phenomena aren’t just random occurrences—they hint at a spiritual reality. The Bible gives us a lens to understand this, revealing how the fall of man, the curse of sin, and the history of idolatry play into what we see today. When we encounter venomous snakes, lurking predators, and polluted waters, it’s hard not to think of the curse mentioned in Genesis. Are these hazards mere environmental quirks, or are they echoes of a world still groaning under the weight of sin?

And let’s not ignore the historical context. Many regions with these dangers have long histories of turning away from God, embracing idolatry and practices that defy His commands. Could it be that the spiritual consequences of these actions are still visible in the very ground, air, and water of these places?