Do not panic as snake sightings increase
Increased stiletto snake activity is expected with the spring rains, and a snake catcher advises people not to pick them up.
AS spring rains arrive and humidity increases, stiletto Snake activity is expected to rise. While these snakes are not aggressive, people are urged not to pick them up, even if they appear small and harmless.
Snake catcher Nick Evans reported two cases where individuals were bitten while trying to move a stiletto snake away from their dogs, mistaking it for a harmless species. Both were hospitalised.
According to Evans, stiletto snakes bite the most people in the greater Durban area every year.
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“Almost all the bites occur when people pick them up, assuming they’re harmless, due to their small size (adults are 30-40cm+-) and non-intimidating appearance.”
Fortunately, the bite from the stiletto snake is not fatal.
“Unfortunately, the cytotoxic venom does cause a lot of pain, swelling and can lead to nasty tissue damage if not treated.”
He said stiletto snakes look similar to snakes that are of no concern to people, such as the wolf snake (which has white speckles), or the Natal black snake.
How to spot a stiletto snake:
Evans said stilettos can be identified by the arching of their neck, which they do when they feel threatened, and the way they quickly swipe their heads from side to side, with the whole body moving.
“They’re usually a brownish/black colour, often with a more pale belly. These small snakes feed mostly on other snakes, particularly thread/worm snakes. In the event of a bite, go to your nearest hospital.”
Should your dog get bitten, Evans advised owners to take it to the vet.
“Antivenom is not required nor effective.”
For information, advice and removals of snakes, WhatsApp Evans on 072 809 5806 or email nickevanskzn@gmail.com.
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