JWVH assists injured short snouted grass snake
GLENFERNESS – The snake had small puncture wounds suspected to be inflicted by a cat.
The Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital (JWVH) in Glenferness recently assisted an injured short-snouted grass snake (Psammophis brevirostris), which was suspected to have been caught by a cat.
Wildlife rehabilitation specialist and director of the hospital Nicci Wright said that the snake arrived at the hospital on 10 June and came through from Onderstepoort, where it had received initial treatment for small puncture wounds it had endured.
The wounds have subsequently healed and the snake has been released into a safe and suitable grassland habitat at a nearby reserve.
Wright said, “Snakes are an integral part of the environment, whether it is urban or the bush, for example, keeping rodent populations under control.”Although these snakes are mildly venomous, they are not thought to be dangerous to humans. These snakes reach a maximum length of up to 1.2 metres and prey on lizards, other snakes, rodents and small birds.
Wright encourages residents who might find injured snakes or are concerned about any particular snake, to contact the hospital on 071 248 1514 for advice and assistance.
The Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital treats indigenous wildlife, free of charge, relying on the community for donations and support.To assist them, visit www.johannesburgwildlifevet.com/how-you-can-help.html
