Snake catcher Ray McGibbon said he has seen an increase in callouts across the region in comparison to previous years, and wants people to be aware.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Known as the Southern Highlands Snake Catcher, he has attended 63 property callouts since late August from Bargo, to Goulburn.
This year's excessive rain and flooding has meant the reptiles have been flushed out of their homes, and have been on the move.
"Even though it was still cold, even [with] partial bits of sun, they're moving," he said.
Overgrown lawns "bogged down" from the rain, have also been an ideal place for snakes to move unseen, he said.
So far, he has encountered, caught and released red-bellied blacks, Highland Copperheads, eastern brown and Tiger snakes.
The licensed snake catcher and releaser said Tiger snakes in particular, come out "like clockwork" every November, and eastern brown snakes were starting to emerge.
Although there has been a rise in calls, Mr McGibbon does not want people to panic - understanding is crucial.
"Education is key," he said.
The reptiles grow "accustomed" to traffic and movements.
If one encounters a snake on, or near their property, it is important that they stay calm and still, and not make any threatening movements.
Where they can, move children and pets away from the scene.
People should then back off slowly, call a licensed catcher and keep an eye on where the reptile travels, which assists with the capture.
If you want to learn more about reptile awareness, Mr McGibbon is holding a information session at the Community Technology and Creativity (CTC) hub in Robertson.
It takes place on November 26 from 1pm to 4pm.
The event is free to attend, and you can register via Trybooking.
People can call Ray on 0400 734 225 if they see any snakes, contact Wildlife Rescue South Coast on 0415 427 214.
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content:
- Bookmark our website
- Follow us on Twitter
- Follow us on Google News
- Make sure you are signed up for our breaking news and regular newsletters
Briannah Devlin
I like to write about arts, entertainment, any local reality tv leads, and property for the Southern Highland News and Goulburn Post, but also report on everything in between. If you have any tips, please send them to Briannah.Devlin@austcommunitymedia.com.au, or call 0439142204.
I like to write about arts, entertainment, any local reality tv leads, and property for the Southern Highland News and Goulburn Post, but also report on everything in between. If you have any tips, please send them to Briannah.Devlin@austcommunitymedia.com.au, or call 0439142204.
