Beware of snakes - be alert, not afraid

Love them or loathe them, snakes are part of our landscape and they usually keep well out of sight.

But as the temperature rises, they’re more active, generally along the foreshore, golf courses, and in bushland reserves as they seek sun and a mate. If you see a snake the best thing you can do is leave it alone. Stay calm and slowly walk away – moving children and pets along with you.

The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action advise that Tiger Snakes and Lowland Copperheads are the most frequently encountered snakes on the foreshore and coastal bushland areas.

It is rare for these snakes to bite people, however they are all venomous. Beware of snakes while walking the dog, cycling, bush-walking, gardening or visiting parks. Snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975. It is illegal to capture, kill or harm them.

Snakes will remain active until around April, depending on the length of summer.

Snake strategies

• If you see a snake do not touch it – keep calm and move yourself and pets away.
• Never touch or attempt to capture or hurt snakes. Instead call Dept Energy, Environment and Climate Action on 136 186 or a licensed snake catcher.
• If a snake is found on Council land such as the foreshore or a park, call 9599 4444 to report the sighting.
• On private property, a licensed snake catcher will assist with its removal.
• Undertake first aid training, ensure your first aid kit contains several compression bandages, and if someone is bitten, call 000 immediately.
• If you suspect your pet has been bitten, apply a bandage and phone your vet.

Resources

Sandringham Hospital Emergency Department stocks anti-venom for tiger and brown snakes and red back spiders.

The Animal Emergency Centre, 248 Wickham Road, Highett is open 24 hours and able to treat snake bites for dogs.

What fauna lives in Bayside?

First Aid Fact Sheet from St John’s Ambulance

Wildlife Victoria Tiger snake fact sheet
 

This Lowland Copperhead, which is one of the most frequently encountered snakes on the foreshore and coastal bushland areas, was spotted opposite Fourth St, Black Rock.