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Snakes already out and about

SNAKE season has arrived in the Swan Hill region along with the early October heat, with several sightings in town and on outlying properties already.

Snake activity, sightings and attacks are increased during the warmer months and local snake catcher Michael O’Brien is urging residents to take care.

He advises residents to clear rubbish from around their property, keep lawns cut low, remove food and water sources and clear any ideal hiding places such as metal or wood laying dormant.

With the Department of Primary Industry (DPI) no longer providing snake catching services, Mr O’Brien is frequently called out to homes across the region to remove slithering visitors safely.

He has already removed four snakes from properties since last Friday. When called out, he attempts to locate the snake and, if able, he captures and relocates it back to bushland where the snake has access to water and shelter. 

For more on this story, pick up Monday’s Guardian (October 12). 

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