Take care as snakes emerge

AS the warmer weather arrives, officers from the Victorian Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action are urging residents to be vigilant as snake activity increases, and to leave them alone.

After a quiet winter period, snakes emerge in spring and summer for food and to mate.

DEECA senior wildlife projects officer Abby Smith said snakes generally present little or no danger to human beings when they are left alone.

“Most snake bites occur when people try to capture or kill them,” she said.

“Snakes may defend themselves if they feel threatened. It’s best to leave them alone and keep dogs on leads when out walking.

“Talk to kids about snake safety; what to wear, staying on the path and not putting your hands in long grass, under rocks or tin.”

Ms Smith said children and pets should be supervised in areas where snakes are likely to be, or kept out of those areas completely.

When in the bush, it’s reccommended people wear long pants and closed walking shoes, and it’s important to have a mobile phone and first aid supplies.

Garden maintainence is important as piles of rocks and wood, metal, and building materials can be a hiding spot for snakes. Bird aviaries can attract rodents, which in turn attract snakes.

Call 000 if a person is bitten, or if it’s suspected a pet has been bitten, seek help from a vet.

Don’t capture or harm snakes. A licensed snake catcher should be contacted. Snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975, and capturing, harming, or killing them is illegal.

For more information contact DEECA on 136 186 or visit stjohnvic.com.au/news/snake-bite-first-aid-tips.