SUMMER may still be two months away, but snakes are already slithering out from their hiding places and into Wyndham backyards.
Manor Lakes, Williams Landing and Sanctuary Lakes are among the early hotspots.
Snake catcher Adam Sapiano from Victorian Reptiles in Hoppers Crossing said he had been receiving calls since late August.
“The season has started a little earlier than usual. About 90 per cent of the ones we’ve picked up have been tiger snakes, with the occasional eastern brown,” he said.
“The reports started coming in about a month ago and one day last week we caught three, including two in backyards at Saltwater Coast [Point Cook].
“With houses being built further and further out and on former swamps and wetlands, it should come as no surprise to come across snakes.” Mr Sapiano advised residents to keep yards neat and tidy.
“We visit many properties which are unkempt, with rubbish lying around and piles of timber all over the place. The more you do to eliminate areas where snakes can hide, the less chance they’ll come in seeking shelter.”
Department of Sustainability and Environment senior scientist Nick Clemann said while snakes were more common around urban fringe or rural areas, it was important to 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 immediately.
Snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act.
