One of the oldest and most intense emotions of mankind is fear, and the oldest and most intense fear is the fear of the unknown.
This is true for wild animals as well!
Often, the fear or even hatred people have for animals actually stems from the unknown. As understanding deepens, unnecessary fears gradually dissipate.
Take the reptiles and amphibians exhibit at the zoo, for example. Many people are initially afraid of snakes, but through educational displays and explanations from animal keepers, they come to understand that snakes won't attack if not provoked. They even learn that snakes can form friendships and value family bonds.
There are interactive animals like the hog-nosed snake that people can touch.
Through this process, they slowly become less afraid and understand that snakes are an important part of the ecosystem and should not be harmed without cause.