News

Snakes out and about as weather warms

By Benalla Ensign

Sep 19, 2022

Sunbathing: Benalla Rural City’s snake population will emerge from hibernation as the weather warms. Photo by Contributed

As the days become warmer, snakes are starting to emerge from their winter hibernation to bask in the sun and search for food and a mate.

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Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) Senior Wildlife Officer, Therese Davis, said sunny weather also means it’s more likely people will encounter a snake.

“It’s not uncommon to find snakes warming themselves on a rock or in a clearing during early spring, particularly on a sunnier day, so it’s important we’re mindful that they can be out and about earlier than normally expected,” Ms Davis said.

“Snakes are generally shy and prefer to keep away from people and often when a snake is found in a backyard it’s because it’s moving through the area to another habitat.

“Snake species found in north-east Victoria include the red-bellied black snake, eastern brown, tiger snake and copperheads

“These four species are venomous, but it is rare for them to bite people. Most snake bites occur when people try to capture or kill a snake.

“Being aware that snakes may be around and being informed about how to react to them is important at this time of year.”

Please remember:

When left alone, snakes present little or no danger to people;
If you see a snake, keep calm and move yourself and anyone with you (including pets) away from the area;
Don't attempt to capture or harm snakes. Instead call DELWP on 136 186 for further advice;
Maintain lawns and clean up around your house, as snakes are attracted to shelter such as piles of rocks and timber, chook sheds, sheets of metal, and building materials; and
Undertake first aid training and ensure your first aid kit contains several compression bandages, and if someone is bitten, call 000 immediately.

Snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975 and it is illegal to capture, harm, or kill them.

If you have information about people wilfully destroying protected wildlife, contact Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000.