After every cold season, snakes are on the move with two things in mind – finding food and finding a mate.
Snakes live in most places of the world but are common in the suburbs and at the beach, so don’t think you’ll never see one.
Eastern brown snakes are found everywhere, but each region has its local specialty and most are venomous.
– Leave it alone. Snakes are generally shy and will not attack unless provoked, so it’s best to leave them be.
– If you see a snake inside your home, get all people and pets out of the room immediately. Shut the door and fill the gap underneath with a towel, then call a professional snake catcher for assistance.
– If you see a snake outside, watch where it goes. If it’s heading for the bush or an open paddock you probably won’t see it again. If it disappears into a shed or under a vehicle, then you may need to call a snake catcher.
Tips for Avoiding a snake bite
– Never try to catch or kill a snake yourself. This is when most bites happen.
– Remember that even little snakes can be dangerous. Baby brown snakes have venom from the time they hatch.
Stick to the trails in national parks and reserves, and make a bit of noise when you walk.
– Keep your yard clear of long grass and rubbish so snakes have nowhere to hide.
Rats and mice are a snake’s smorgasbord, so clean up after the chooks and control rodents on your property.
What to do If you are bitten by a snake
– Always assume the snake may be venomous.
– Sit quietly, as this will reduce the speed that the venom can move around your body.
– Call an ambulance.
– If you have a first aid kit, wrap a compression bandage tightly around the bitten limb, starting just above the fingers or toes and moving upwards on the bitten limb as far as can be reached.
– Remember what the snake looked like so you can tell the doctor.
Culled from good living
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