Flaviemys purvisi
Very Well-Known Member
By MARIAN FAA
29th Jun 2018
SLITHERING COLD: This red-bellied black snake startled employees at Betta Bilt Cabinets when it emerged from hibernation, prompting warnings from local snake catchers. Photo: Dave Betts
AN ALARMING snake sighting at a Warwick business has prompted a local snake remover to warn residents of dangerous reptiles in winter.
A red-bellied black snake was discovered in the warehouse of Betta Bilt Cabinets, on Albion St, Warwick, on Thursday morning, causing a scare among employees.
Cabinetmaker Dave Betts said he was "shocked” to see the venomous snake out and about in winter.
"We have never seen a snake here before, especially at this time of year,” he said.
Mr Betts said he thought it very unusual to find the snake out of hibernation.
But licensed snake catcher Gary Clark said snakes could still be a danger during colder months.
With Warwick being a very active area for snakes, Mr Clark said residents should still be careful and prepared for a sighting.
Gary Clark said snakes could still be a danger in winter. Photo: Marian Faa
"Definitely still be vigilant,” he said.
During winter, most snakes go into a semi-hibernation, but can still come in contact with humans, as the team and Mr Betts discovered.
"They hide in little corners, cupboard and drawers. If you open the drawer you are going to startle it and it could attack,” Mr Clark said.
"They would normally take refuge somewhere nice and dark, safe away from predators. You might find them in a shed, under objects in backyards and under roofing iron.”
He said most snake bite incidents happened when people tried to remove or dispose of snakes on their own.
"A lot of people tend to startle them, and they might strike out,” he said.
"But that is usually in self defence rather than aggression.”
Mr Clark said people should contact a qualified snake catcher if they find a snake at any time of the year.
You can contact Gary Clark on 0412789324.
