As we welcome warmer temperatures to defrost our bones, it's also time to keep our wits about us to avoid undesirable experiences. Swooping magpies injuring our scones or being stung by angry bees isn't much fun ... nor is wrestling snakes.
Australian snakes don't hibernate, although they do find shelter in the cooler climate and their mobility is slowed if and when they are active. Now that the ground is warming up, snakes are beginning to move around more. The next 7 months we may typically come across them in our travels.
Numerous venomous snake species are found in Victoria, including the tiger, brown, black, copperhead and red-bellied black snake. The reptiles now appear basking in the sun not far from their winter shelter. Once they've soaked in enough sunshine and warmth, they are keen to feed, searching generally for frogs, rodents, or skinks.
Many of us are fearful of snakes, yet they are mostly shy creatures not seeking confrontation with humans. They're interested in food and have no desire to eat us. Thankfully not in Australia anyway!
Snakes will strike if they feel threatened. If we attempt to catch, kill, provoke or corner them, chances are we'll be bitten. If we startle or step on them by accident, the same outcome may occur. So please keep your eyes peeled when you and/or your pets are outdoors.
If you see a snake during a walk, just calmly move away and warn other people you happen to come across. If you are bitten, ring an ambulance and remain as still as possible to slow down the flow of venom. Apply an improvised pressure bandage over the bite and up the limb, while attempting your best to keep composed.
If you discover a snake on your property, ring a snake catcher (best to have the number of your local service close at hand), and if possible, from a safe distance, keep the snake in your sight until help arrives.
The risk of being bitten by a snake or dying from a snakebite is extremely low. Use commonsense and be mindful of our native creatures and simultaneously we can all enjoy our stunning environment.
A tiger snake
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