EXPERTS have warned Swan Hill residents to watch their step
and ready their properties, following predictions that 2012 will see a
significant increase in snake populations across the municipality.
Ultima
snake handler Greg Keyes said the 2011 floods and the current climate had
provided “perfect conditions” for a rise in snake numbers.
“Last year was a
busy year for snakes, but we’re looking at an even busier year this year,” Mr
Keyes said.
“I had a call out to a brown snake in a pot plant about six weeks
ago — in winter — which is unheard of, so we’re very much seeing the right
conditions that will bring out snakes.
“It’s a combination of floods last
year and the weather now, and the lizards are already out as well.”
Despite
increased snake numbers, Mr Keyes said people could take steps to avoid
confrontations with the district’s most common snakes, which include the eastern
brown snake, tiger snake and red bellied black snake.
“People just need to
be careful of where they step and should try to make plenty of noise or
vibrations when they walk, as most bitings occur accidentally,” he said.
“And
don’t let them feel trapped — snakes will always look to get away so make sure
they have an escape route.”
Swan Hill resident Betty Smith told The Guardian
via Facebook that escape was the route she took during her recent encounter with
a slippery serpent.
More on this story in Wednesday’s edition of The Guardian (19/9/12).
