Dealing with Snakes
In spring and summer, reptiles emerge to bask in the sun. They are more active during the day and at night in warm weather. During this time, you should take precautions to minimise the chance of encountering snakes.
Move slowly away, do not approach or aggravate it and ensure your pets are safe and cannot access the snake.
Found a snake?
If you find a snake in your garden or at the park, please contact the Wildcare Helpline 9474 9055 to be referred to a volunteer reptile remover.
To learn more, check out the link below:
Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions - Wildcare
First aid for snake bites
- Remain calm
- Apply a firm compression bandage over the entire limb that has been bitten starting from the bite site (it is best to use compression bandages)
- Immobolise the limb
- Call 000 immediately. Even if you do not feel ill, it is vital that you seek medical attention as quickly as possible.
What attracts snakes to gardens or homes
Snakes are often attracted to backyards and houses because food, water and shelter may be available. To reduce the risk of snakes taking up residence around your house, you can:
- Remove accessible food sources.
- Keep your garden well maintained. Long grass, stacks of timber or fence sheeting provide shelter for snakes.
- Ensure that all screen doors are kept shut at all times and flyscreens are in good repair. If there is a gap under an external screen or solid door, install a door sweep or weather strip.
- Empty out or limit pools of water (e.g. run off from air conditioning units, dripping outdoor taps, ponds, pools or faulty reticulation). Snakes are more likely to frequent areas that have an available source of water.
How to avoid a snake encounter when enjoying our natural environment
- Exercise your dog on a leash at all times
- Stick to paths, trails and walkways.
What to do if you see a snake
- Remain calm - slowly back away to a safe distance and allow the snake to move away
- Leave the snake alone - it is illegal to kill any native animal and it places you at a higher risk of being bitten if you force the snake to defend itself.