Snake expectations
SLITHERING SEASON ARRIVES
SNAKE catchers are warning the public to be wary of the reptiles coming out of hibernation as the weather warms up.
There have already been several sightings across Geelong and Darren Rhook of Rhook’s Reptile Rescue expects snakes will be particularly active this summer after a wet winter.
“The warmer weather brings snakes out of hibernation as they look for food and a mate,” Mr Rhook said.
“Considering the amount of rain we had during winter there will be more green patches with frogs and other food sources around for snakes.”
Earlier this month Mr Rhook, a licensed snake catcher, was called to the old Corio tip to remove a tiger snake. Last summer, he removed about 40 snakes from homes, schools and other sites.
Last week snake controller Darren Keiller dealt with a small copperhead that was found at an Ocean Grove home when the owner was cutting grass.
In recent days a Geelong resident took to a community Facebook page to warn those pounding the pavement near the Barwon River to exercise caution after she saw what she believed to be a tiger snake lying in the middle of a footpath near the Highton end of the popular running track.
A photo of a snake at the top of the 78W staircase at Jan Juc beach has also been circulating on similar Surf Coast sites this week.
Snakes commonly found in the Barwon region include tiger snakes and lowland copperheads while eastern browns are sometimes found along the Surf Coast.
In past years Plantation Rd, Corio, parts of Winchel- sea, Bell Post Hill, Highton and Lara have proved snake hot spots.
Jirrahlinga Koala and Wildlife Sanctuary director Tehree Gordon has also seen snakes coming out of hibernation in recent weeks.
On Monday, Ms Gordon spotted a copperhead snake near a pool of water outside the Taits Rd wildlife sanctuary. She warned the public to remove old pieces of tin and other materials from around their homes, which snakes often use to shelter under.
“If people find snakes in their gardens they need to be extremely careful and call a professional to remove it,” she said. Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) senior scientist Nick Clemann said warmer weather has brought some snakes out of their winter hibernation early.
“Snakes ... can be found close to cities and towns, particularly around watercourses and parkland,” he said.
“It is rare for these snakes to bite people, however (many) are dangerously venomous.” If you find a snake on your property, contact the DELWP on 136 186.
Snakes are a protected species and it is illegal to kill or capture them without a permit.