AS SNAKES become more active in the warmer weather, people are being encouraged to make sure they understand what to do if they see or are bitten by a snake.<\/p>\n
A Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) spokesperson said spring was typically when snake sightings became more frequent.<\/p>\n
“As temperatures warm up and the days become sunnier, snakes will begin to emerge from their winter hibernation to bask in the sun and search for food and a mate.”<\/p>\n
Snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975, meaning it is illegal to kill or harm them.<\/p>\n
DELWP encourages people who need a snake moved to instead contact a licensed snake catcher.<\/p>\n
Jay Barnes is a licensed snake catcher who responds to call-outs both in Geelong and the Surf Coast.<\/p>\n
He said different species tend to emerge at different times.<\/p>\n
“Usually tiger snakes and copperheads are the first to come out, especially around the Surf Coast as they can tolerate the cooler climates,” he said.<\/p>\n
“Myself and the other snake catchers in the region are already starting to get busy.”<\/p>\n
Mr Barnes also noted COVID-19 had changed the nature of many of their call-outs.<\/p>\n
“We’re not getting reports of people out hiking and seeing them, we’re seeing a lot more of them around the homes and especially anywhere that’s particularly close to dams, streams, and creeks.”<\/p>\n
DELWP advises there are various steps people can do to ensure their safety from snakes:<\/p>\n
If you see a snake, keep calm and move yourself and anyone with you, including your pets, away from the area.<\/p>\n
Undertake first aid training and ensure your first aid kit contains several compression bandages.<\/p>\n
If someone is bitten, call 000 immediately.<\/p>\n
Maintain lawns and keep areas around your house tidy.<\/p>\n
Call the DELWP Customer Service Centre on 136 186 for advice on the nearest licensed snake catcher.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
AS SNAKES become more active in the warmer weather, people are being encouraged to make sure they understand what to do if they see or are bitten by a snake. A Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) spokesperson said spring was typically when snake sightings became more frequent. “As temperatures warm up and […]<\/p>\n