Summer may still be a few months away, but snakes are already slithering out from their hiding places across Wyndham.
Snake catcher Adam Sapiano, of Victorian Reptiles in Hoppers Crossing, said he had been busy since the final weeks of winter, with Point Cook among the hotspots.
“I’ve been called out to catch six or seven snakes so far this season, mainly in Point Cook and they’ve all been tiger snakes,” Mr Sapiano said.
“Most of my time is spent in newer housing estates in Point Cook or in Wyndham Vale and the Manor Lakes area.
“With houses being built further and further out and on former swamps and wetlands, it’s no surprise people will come across snakes.”
Mr Sapiano advised residents to keep yards neat and tidy and to remove rubbish, eliminating places where snakes can hide.
“One of the biggest problems we face as snake catchers is when people call us, they don’t watch where the snake goes,” he said.
“When you go outside remember to take your phone so if you see a snake, you can quickly call a licensed catcher and keep track of where the snake is.”
Point Cook’s Animal Accident and Emergency Centre has already treated an animal for a snake bite and warned pet owners to remain on the lookout for snakes and avoid walking dogs in long grass.
Dr Karen Davies, of Point Cook’s Direct Vet Services, urged people to act quickly if they suspect a snake bite.
“One of my dogs was bitten by a snake and died within eight minutes,” she said.
Common signs of snake bite include sudden vomiting, salivating, laboured breathing, difficulty walking, urinating blood, and collapsing.
The Department of Environment and Primary Industries recommends people be vigilant when walking near all waterways and parks. Anyone who sees a snake should remain calm, move themselves and any pets well clear, and call a licensed catcher.
