Snakes on a plain: hotter weather spurs warning

THE arrival of spring weather in Victoria’s south west means people are getting outdoors at the same time snakes are starting to become more active.

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) program manager of compliance operations Mark Breguet said snakes were emerging from their winter hibernation to bask in the sun and to search for food and a mate.

“The recent sunny weather also means more people are spending time in their gardens or in parks and forests.

“As people and snakes become more active it is quite possible they’ll encounter each other while enjoying the outdoors.

“Tiger snakes and lowland copperheads will become more common along the coast as the weather continues to warm up.

“These species are venomous, so you should keep clear and let them move through the area. It is rare for them to bite people; however, they are known to bite animals when disturbed. If you are a pet owner and your dog or cat encounters a snake causing you concern, the best course of action is to remove your pet from the area or tie it up while the snake passes.

“Being aware that snakes may be around and being informed about how to react to them is very important at this time of year.”

DELWP have suggested these key points to remember about living in or visiting an area with snakes:

• If you see a snake – keep calm and try to move yourself, anyone with you and your pets away from the snake
• Never touch or attempt to capture or hurt a snake – instead call DELWP Customer Service Centre on 136 186 who will provide you advice or put you in contact with your nearest licensed snake catcher
• Have a spring clean – clean up around the house and cut lawns regularly. Snakes are attracted to shelter such as piles of rocks and timber, sheets of metal, or building materials
• Undertake first-aid training, ensure your first-aid kit contains several compression bandages, and if someone is bitten phone 000 immediately.
• Snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975.

It is illegal to capture, kill or harm them. Bites can occur when people try to kill snakes.