Cockroach Mdluli, the legendary local snake catcher, has rescued another snake, a three metre-long black mamba, in Mkhuhlu near Hazyview. His latest feat, on September 18, involved helping a frightened family who had tried to kill the snake with hot water in their yard.

Mdluli was called to the scene and found the extremely venomous snake hiding under some flowers.

“It was poised to strike because it felt threatened,” he said.

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He managed to safely catch and remove the reptile before anyone was hurt.

“The people who tried to kill it were very lucky to have escaped unharmed,” Mdluli added.
He always stresses the danger of attempting to catch or kill snakes without proper training.

“People are putting themselves and those around them at risk, because once a snake is agitated it will strike anything,” he warned.

The black mamba is one of the most dangerous snakes in the world.

As Mkhuhlu is close to the Kruger National Park (KNP), residents should be aware that snakes – especially in summer – are more likely to be active. Warm weather often drives snakes into residential areas in search of food and shelter.

Mdluli said he is always available to assist with snake removal and advised people not to interact with snakes themselves, but rather to keep an eye on them until a professional arrives.

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He also urged communities to refrain from killing snakes.

The snake was safely released into the KNP the following day.