Marissa Schwierjohn has created one of the most in depth and effective environmental safety programs specifically tailored to the unique nature of the film industry. Marissa and her colleagues are all CSATF compliant animal trainers and handlers of Local 399 with a vast knowledge of local wildlife. Her goal has always been to help productions, large and small, provide the safest work environment possible for their cast and crew. Marissa is also proud to have established protocols and guidelines for such a humane service as well as introduce new safety practices and tools, some of which are trademark pending.
Wildlife is very good at surviving. Most wildlife, snakes included, go through life without being noticed. Their natural camouflage aids them as well as their ability to make use of opportunistic hiding spots and to fit into tight areas. Can you spot the three foot Southern Pacific rattlesnake in this picture. It is important to remember that you should always look in and under any possible hiding spot for wildlife prior to entering the area or placing your hands or for that matter any part of your body. "If it is warm enough for insect activity, it is warm enough for snakes". Most individuals have the belief that it must be incredibly hot for snake activity, yet the majority of our finds have come on days of cooler temps such as 50 and 60 degree, as well as before, during and after a rain.
"Think of us like you would the medic...we are there for prevention via inspections as well as the immediate removal of the snake."
Starting in 2000, Marissa had the distinct pleasure and privilege of training under/learning from Hollywood's top reptile supplier. In addition, she has worked a wide range of animals from small to large, venomous to nonvenomous, domestic to wild, for various productions.
Since 2011, Marissa has helped a long list of productions provide the safest possible work environment for their cast and crew. List of productions covered available upon request.
A Snake Bitch is the gold standard for creating a proactive safe and humane work environment for your cast and crew. We follow the innovative, copyrighted and trademarked Reel Environmental Safety Program.