URGENT UPDATE: Residents across Australia are being warned to stay vigilant as snake season kicks off earlier than expected, with reports of increased sightings in various regions, including Noosaville. With warmer temperatures signaling the end of winter, snakes are becoming more active, raising safety concerns for homeowners.
Recent statistics reveal a staggering one in two homes in some areas may have had a snake in their roof at least once. This alarming trend has been highlighted by local snake expert Luke Huntley from Snake Catcher Noosa, who shared insights on the growing snake population as breeding season approaches. “The statistic theoretically is one in three roofs, however I reckon one in two roofs get snakes at one point or another,” Huntley told Yahoo News.
Just last week, a resident in Noosaville discovered five common tree snakes basking on his roof, with four males drawn by a larger female. The sighting is a clear indication that breeding behaviors are starting, as evidenced by the snakes forming a “mating ball.” Common tree snakes are non-venomous and are a protected species in Australia.
With the arrival of spring around the corner, experts are urging caution. Traditionally, snakes come out of brumation in September, but with the recent warm weather following weeks of rain, snake catchers are on high alert for an earlier surge in activity. Reports of snake sightings have emerged from backyards, parks, and even train stations across Queensland, NSW, and Victoria.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SPOT A SNAKE: If you encounter a snake in your home, do not panic. The first step is to ensure that children and pets are kept away. Huntley recommends two options: “If you open a door and give the snake tons of space, there is a chance that snake is going to follow that smell of fresh air out the door.” If the snake is inside a room, close the door, put a towel under it to block any escape routes, and contact a professional snake catcher immediately.
It’s crucial to remember that snakes are protected across all Australian states and territories, making it illegal to kill them.
As snake season intensifies, residents are encouraged to stay alert and report any sightings to local authorities. With the potential for an increase in snake populations leading to unexpected encounters, homeowners should prepare for the upcoming months.
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