Pupils discover one of South Africa’s most venomous snake

KELLYSVILLE – One of South Africa’s most venomous snake was discovered on Kellysville Primary School’s premises last week.

Learners found the Mozambique spitting cobra on the school grounds during break time.

Its venom has a predominantly cytotoxic effect and if bitten a person might require surgery.

According to Ms Odette du Preez, a teacher at the school, the reptile was more terrified of the pupils than they were of it.

“It was so scared of the learners, so much so that it hid in one of the cars. We immediately called the department of environmental affairs to come and capture it,” Du Preez said.

The school would like to set a good example by not killing wild animals or reptiles. “One of our main objectives is to teach our learners about the importance of nature conservation, that is why we didn’t kill it.”

Mr Hein Geldenhuys of the Mpumalanga environmental affairs department went to the school to catch the snake. “On my arrival I found the cobra hiding in the engine of one of the cars. It is not common for snakes to hide in a car, but it was terrified and needed a hiding place,” Geldenhuys said.

“We are glad that the school didn’t kill it and chose to call us.” After catching the reptile, he took it to Sterkspruit Nature Reserve.

“We wanted to make sure that we take it far away from the residents, since it is venomous. The community should know that February and March is a change of season for the reptiles and they go out looking for food and a place to hibernate during winter,” he explained.

“Residents must keep in mind that if a snake spits on your skin it is not life threatening. If it spits in your eyes quickly rinse them out with water and if the burning sensation doesn’t stop, go to your nearest doctor.

However, it is a different case when it comes to a bite, because it is dangerous, and may require surgical intervention.” Locals who come across wild animals or reptiles and need assistance, can contact Geldenhuys on 082-898-8192.