The Highlands has seen rainfall over the past month but it’s not enough to keep our slithery friends from heading inland.
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Droughts can effect snakes with problems such as dehydration and malnutrition. Dry conditions can also see animals heading inland towards food supply.
Related: Relocate, don't exterminate snakes
Ray McGibbon from Ozstyle Reptiles said, “we’ve had rainfall but it’s not enough. We control the water and with us controlling the water, snake food such as frogs, head inland and the serpent will follow.”
As drought stricken creatures of the land head towards the refuge of the Highlands, this can raise the rate of serpent sightings. Especially hazardous ones.
“It can be difficult to identify if a snake is dangerous,” Mr McGibbon said. “The Southern Highlands has a high percentage of threatening snakes. Until properly identified by a professional, I would treat every snake as a high-risk.”
Mr McGibbon reiterated that snakes could be dangerous but there was no such thing as a dangerous snake.
“If you leave the snake alone, it won’t be a hazard or threat,” Mr McGibbon said.
“If you’re in a situation where you cross paths with a snake and it acknowledges you, stay still for 30-60 seconds and then retreat in the opposite direction. Keep your eyes on it the whole time. Stay at a safe distance and if possible contact your local snake catcher. Behave sensible around these animals and you will not have a problem.
“It’s all about understanding their movements and actions. That’s the key to living with these creatures.
“If you make them feel threatened, they will react”. Major occurrences of snake sightings are due to untidy gardens and potential shelter for the reptile.
“Wood piles, leaf litter, ground covers, ponds and water accessories are all potential habitats for snakes. “They will come and inspect a potential new home if it looks inviting,” Mr McGibbon said.
Related: Stay calm around snakes
Another creature that can strike fear into the hearts of many is the Funnel Web Spider.
Mr McGibbon can also deal with those.
“Use a long spatula or wooden spoon to put them in a jar with damp cotton wool at the bottom and holes in the lid, then give me a call, he said.
“Getting people to understand these animals that they fear can be difficult but getting rid of that fear and replacing it with a healthy respect for the creature is my aim.”
Mr McGibbon has videos on the Ozstyle Reptiles Facebook page which demonstrate the correct body movements and etiquette when encountering a snake.
If you spot a snake on your property, keep your eye on its movements and call Ray from Ozstyle Reptiles on 0400 734 225.
