THE weather is warming up and snakes are out of hibernation and on the move.

With sightings from locals on roads, headlands and even on the Coffs Harbour Golf Course, it is time to be aware and also to know what to do in the event of a snake sighting.

WIRES recommends that if you see a snake to keep your distance and do not try and catch it or touch it.

WIRES also recommends keeping your yard free of debris and your lawn short.

If you do see a snake in your yard they are usually only passing through.

By keeping a distance and monitoring the whereabouts of the snake you are likely to find that it travels through your yard in a couple of hours.

If they get into your house it is recommended that you contain the snake in one room if possible, closing a door and putting towels against the bottom so that it cannot escape and calling WIRES Rescue Line on 1300 094 737.

The number can also be called if you find an injured snake.

The NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment website has a list of snake catchers to assist in the removal of snakes, available at www.environment.nsw.gov.au/questions/snake-removal.

The department also recommends making your garden less attractive by keeping shrubs trimmed, lawns mowed and the garden generally tidy and removing any piles of rubble, wood, roof sheeting or leaf clippings where snakes can shelter.

Snakes hear through vibration, so when mowing the lawn, mow away from the house to avoid directing snakes towards it.

If bitten by a snake, local snake expert Steve McEwan, from Reptile World at the Big Banana, recommends using the pressure and immobilisation technique and seeking medical attention immediately.

Some of the common types of snakes on the Coffs Coast include the Coastal Carpet Python, the Red Bellied Black and the Green or Common Tree Snake.

 

By Sandra MOON