ABSTRACT Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) is central to biodiversity conservation and public health, particularly in regions where human–snake interactions are frequent. In Sudan, snakes hold complex cultural meanings: valued as rodent predators, feared for venom, and linked to spiritual beliefs. To document LEK and attitudes toward snakes, we conducted a validated Arabic language online survey ( n = 192) across 16 states (Feb–Apr 2025). Results indicated that encounters with snakes were most common during the rainy season ( n = 129, 53%), especially in agricultural areas ( n = 72, 38%), with the genus Naja (33%) and Echis (25%) most frequently reported. Identification of snakes by community members relied on coloration, and 32% of respondents could not distinguish venomous from nonvenomous species. Conservation attitudes regarding snakes were polarized, with similar proportions strongly supportive of (31%) and 29% opposed to snake conservation; yet 95% endorsed integrating LEK with science to promote coexistence. Despite this, 65% of respondents reported killing snakes regardless of venom status. Beliefs commonly described snakes as jinn (i.e., demons) (47%) or avengers (25%). Reported treatments included incision and suction (31%), use of diverse treatments (29%), fang extraction was reported by 14% of respondents, and in nearly all of these cases the “fangs” was extracted using plant poultices, except for one report where frogs were used instead. 5% reported use of a venom stone, no knowledge of treatments (19%) and rare access to antivenom. In conclusion, perceptions of snakes are shaped by a complex interplay of ecological observations, cultural beliefs, and practical health responses. Conservation and public health strategies should integrate LEK with scientific knowledge, strengthen evidence‐based snakebite management, and tailor conservation and health interventions to regional contexts.