Snakes active on coast

Tiger Snakes and Lowland Copperheads are starting to get more active along the Surf Coast as we move into the warmer weather.

In a media release from the Department of Environment and Sustainability (DSE) it was reported the arrival of spring weather means more people are getting outdoors at the same time that snakes are coming out of hibernation.

DSE Arthur Rylah Institute (ARI) Senior Scientist Nick Clemann said snakes will be emerging from their hibernation over winter to bask in the sun and start moving about to look for food and a mate.

“Spring means more people are out walking their dogs, cycling, bush-walking, enjoying parks and gardening so, depending on where they live and walk, they are quite likely to encounter a snake,” Mr Clemann said.

The Great Ocean Road Coast Committee encourages the community to keep dogs on leads, and steer clear of long grasses, rocks and bushes where snakes might be lurking.

DSE have provided some key points to remember about living in an area with snakes:

• If you see a snake – keep calm and try to move yourself, anyone with you and your pets away from the snake.
• Never touch or attempt to capture or hurt snakes – instead call DSE on 136 186 for further advice, or call a licensed snake catcher.
• Have a spring clean – clean up around the house and cut lawns regularly – snakes are attracted to shelter such as piles of rocks and timber, sheets of metal, or building materials.
• Undertake first aid training, ensure your first aid kit contains several compression bandages, and if someone is bitten, call 000 immediately.
• Snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975. It is illegal to capture, kill or harm them. Bites can occur when people try to kill snakes.

What to look out for:

For further information and descriptions of the Lowland Copperhead and Tiger Snake  visit The Australian Reptile Park website.

For a full list of snakes in Victoria visit the Museum Victoria website.

Take a look at some other ways to stay safe on the coast here.