Alert: What to do if you encounter a snake in Ladysmith

Local snake expert Fanie Cilliers encounters snakes on a daily basis, be it at a business premises or in a rural area, but more and more encounters are right here in town at people’s homes.

Fanie says there has been an increase in snake activity, as all the eggs are hatching. Lately, most of the snakes he is called out to remove have been inside people’s homes.

He adds that time is a key factor when it comes to snakes and it is of utmost importance that the snake is watched from a safe distance, especially inside homes.

Fanie says, “People think that because the snake is in the house, there are no hiding places, but are always amazed as to where I finally find the snake.”

Here are a few key tips as to what you should do if you find a snake in your home:

Immediately notify your local snake removal team.

Then check that all children and pets are removed from the area.

If the snake is in a room with a door, close the door and place towels in front of the door.

Also read: Watch: Snake expert removes African Rock Python from police van near Ladysmith

Also read: Watch Video: Mommy, there’s a snake on the stoep – 5.29-metre Python found near Ladysmith

You must not leave the area, as the snake can push the towels out of the way, so remain vigilant.

If the snake is in an open plan area, simply keep an eye on it. Never run away, as this increases the chance of the snake not being found.

Finally, supply the snake catcher with as much information as possible and let them do their work while you keep children and pets away from the area.

If there is a snake outside your house, you would do the same – keep an eye on it, keep everyone clear and never try to corner the snake, as this will change its behaviour to being defensive. The latter increases the risk of a bite or venom being spat in the eyes.

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