WEEKS after a Mozambique spitting cobra was spotted crossing the uMhlanga promenade into the vegetation near the Breakers Hotel, an Eastern Natal green snake has been spotted along the boardwalk.

Domenic and Adrienne King were strolling along the uMhlanga boardwalk this morning (November 10) when they had a brief encounter with the snake.

Domenic admitted to have been scared and fascinated by the snake when they stumbled upon the reptile curled around a beam on the boardwalk.

The reserve is located not far from where Chanan Medalie (15), who was on holiday from Johannesburg, spotted and captured the viral footage of a Mozambique spitting cobra crossing the uMhlanga promenade into the vegetation near the Breakers Hotel.

Also Read: VIDEO: Spitting cobra spotted on uMhlanga Promenade

Recalling the encounter, Domenic said, “My wife and I jumped when we saw the snake. She ran away and I stayed behind.”

“We were out early to get steps in which we more than made up for with that scare,” he joked.

With his shared fascination for reptiles with his grandson, Domenic said he had to get a video of the reptile.

“We realised that it was not dangerous and recorded a video of the encounter out of curiosity.”

Snake rescuer Jason Arnold identified the reptile as a harmless Eastern Natal Green Snake. He praised the Kings for not harming the snake.

“I’ve seen more than my fair share of snakes that have been caught and ‘released’ when they were obviously very badly injured during the capture and probably didn’t make it,” said Arnold.

Also Read: VIDEO: Genet rescued from uMhlanga restaurant released

“I’ve also seen some exotic, escaped pet snakes having been caught and ‘returned to the wild’ when those animals don’t even belong in the country and could pose a significant risk to people, pets and the environment by being released.”

With the extreme heat and hot weather snakes are forced to leave their normal hiding spots to search for cooler shade and water sources. Arnold advised those who may come across a snake to give them distance and respect.

“No snake wants to bite you. But if you’re deliberately messing with them, then you’re asking to be bitten,” he said.

He advised residents to keep numbers of reputable snake handlers in your area handy.

“Take a photo or video of the snake if possible. That way, even if it does vanish, at least you will have an image/video to send us for identification purposes. Never ask for snake identifications on general social media/WhatsApp groups. You’ll get an array of answers from people that insist on guessing.”

He added, “Anyone interfering before a snake handler arrives, will just make the situation more difficult than it originally was, or they will destroy any and all clues that there might have been, which a professional snake handler would’ve probably been able to find.”

For any snake-related activity, contact Arnold at 082 745 6375.

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