Esther Lauaki
Brimbank residents should be aware of snakes out and about as the spring weather warms up, the state’s environmental authority says.
Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) warns that snakes are starting to emerge from their winter hibernation to bask in the sun and search for food and a mate.
Senior wildlife management officer Therese Davis said the sunny weather means it was more likely people would encounter a snake.
“Snake species commonly found… include the eastern brown snake, tiger snake and red-bellied black snake,” Ms Davis said.
“These three 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.
“Snakes can be known to bite animals, such as dogs, if they feel threatened. If your dog or cat encounters a snake, the best course of action is to remove your pet from the area or tie it up while the snake passes, and if you suspect your pet has been bitten take it to a vet immediately.
“Snakes are generally very 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.
“Being aware that snakes may be around and being informed about how to react to them is very important at this time of year.”
Snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975 and it is illegal to capture, harm, or kill them. Reports of people wilfully destroying protected wildlife will be investigated accordingly.
Esther Lauaki
