Be alert not alarmed: The best thing to do if you come across a snake such as a red-bellied black snake is to leave it alone.
Leaving snakes alone as they emerge from their winter brumation is the best way to avoid getting bitten, according to the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning.
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Brumation is the term used to describe the hibernation of cold-blooded animals — namely reptiles and amphibians — that rely on the surrounding environment to regulate their body temperature.
“It’s not uncommon to find snakes warming themselves on a rock or in a clearing during early spring, particularly on a sunnier day, so it’s important we’re mindful that they can be out and about earlier than normally expected,” DELWP’s Therese Davis said.
“Snakes are generally 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.
“Snake species found in north-east Victoria include the red-bellied black snake, eastern brown, tiger snake and copperheads.
“These four 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.
“Being aware that snakes may be around and being informed about how to react to them is important at this time of year.
She said people who lived in an area with snakes should remember:
When left alone, snakes present little or no danger to people.
If you see a snake, keep calm and move yourself and anyone with you (including pets) away from the area.
Don't attempt to capture or harm snakes. Instead call DELWP on 136 186 for further advice.
Maintain lawns and clean up around your house, as snakes are attracted to shelter such as piles of rocks and timber, chook sheds, sheets of metal, and building materials.
Undertake first aid training and ensure your first aid kit contains several compression bandages, and if someone is bitten, call 000 immediately.
Waking up: Reptiles, such as the eastern brown snake, are emerging from their winter brumation.
Snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975 and it is illegal to capture, harm or kill them. If you have information about people wilfully destroying protected wildlife, please contact Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000.
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