Warmer Spring Weather has Snakes out & about
Monday, 9 October 2006

One of the least popular members of Australia's wildlife population is becoming more active, particularly in semi-rural and coastal locations as the weather warms up

The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) is advising people to keep their properties clear of rubbish and long grass to avoid providing a welcome refuge for snakes such as tiger snakes, brown snakes and lowland copperheads.

DSE South West Region Wildlife officer Jim O’Brien said snakes were protected under the Wildlife Act.

“It is illegal to kill a snake, however residents can arrange for a licensed snake catcher to remove them,” he said.

Mr O’Brien said snakes were most commonly seen near creeks, grassy reserves and coastal areas. He said town dwellers were largely oblivious to the increased movement of snakes during the warmer months but they should be aware that snakes are prevalent in nearby bush surrounds.

“Snakes are generally very shy and prefer to keep away from where people live, and if they are found in backyards it is usually because they are passing through on their way to other habitat,”
he said.

“Most people would choose not to share their property with snakes, so they should take all possible steps to deter them from lingering.”

Mr O’Brien said most snake bites occurred when people tried to catch or kill snakes.
DSE advises residents to:

• Clean up around the house. Do not leave stacks of timber or sheets of iron lying about, as this is ideal temporary habitat.
• Keep grass and lawns cut short. Snakes do not like open areas where they are vulnerable to predators.
• Keep grain or pet food storage areas clean and tidy. These areas can attract mice, which are a favoured food supply for snakes.
• Ensure garden rockeries and ferneries are kept clear and tidy. These are cool places that attract snakes on warm days.
• Avoid walking around their backyards in bare feet, wear leg protection on hot nights and use a torch. Tiger snakes in particular become nocturnal in very hot weather and it is then that they are harder to see. Pets, particularly cats, are vulnerable to being bitten at this time.

DSE offers a range of information on snakes, including contact details for licensed snake catchers. Call the DSE Customer Service Centre on 136 186 for details.