SPRING and September spell the start of snake season, and a local catcher is reminding people how to reduce any conflict with the reptiles.<\/p>\n
Greater Bendigo Snake Control\u2019s Tameeka Stevens said she expects more callouts as the weather warms up.<\/p>\n
\u201cThrough September to about mid-October, that\u2019s when the reptile activity starts to really increase,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey\u2019ll be leaving their winter hides to explore for food, and they\u2019ll be utilising any sunny days to warm up.\u201d<\/p>\n
While the Bureau of Meteorology predicts above average rainfall for eastern Australia during Spring, Ms Stevens said wet weather and humidity may lead to increased sightings of certain species.<\/p>\n
\u201cUsually when we have a bit of rain that influences other animals as well, amphibians in particular,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cSnakes that eat amphibians are tiger snakes and red belly black snakes, it might make them a bit more active given their food source is also active.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ms Stevens said her most common callouts are for eastern brown snakes, and she suggests people with yards and gardens to do a bit of spring cleaning.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe eastern brown snake is found right throughout Bendigo,\u201d she said. \u201cUsually they\u2019re found in backyards either in established gardens or yards that have debris waiting around.<\/p>\n
\u201cI recommend people with debris in their backyard keep it neat and tidy and try clear it away.\u201d<\/p>\n
People are also recommended to keep a snake bite first aid kit in the house or when camping and get on top of any rodent issues.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
SPRING and September spell the start of snake season, and a local catcher is reminding people how to reduce any conflict with the reptiles. Greater Bendigo Snake Control\u2019s Tameeka Stevens said she expects more callouts as the weather warms up. \u201cThrough September to about mid-October, that\u2019s when the reptile activity starts to really increase,\u201d she […]<\/p>\n