Few years ago I had read some interesting study about it, but now I cannot recall from where/who.
Here some links (I don't know if the sources are trustful) for start.


http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases...0227121840.htm
http://www.mnn.com/earth-matters/ani...may-be-genetic
http://www.parentingscience.com/fear-of-snakes.html

I remember in the "kid myself" the curiosity was stronger than the fear.