Vhembe snake catcher survives Black Mamba bite

LIMPOPO – In an effort to safely relocate a highly venomous Black Mamba, snake catcher Denzel Ncube had a near-death experience when the reptile unexpectedly bit him on the thigh.

Responding to a call in Mavhungeni village outside Louis Trichardt, Ncube first thought he was dealing with a small snake. Upon closer inspection though, he realised the Black Mamba was an enormous 3.5m long, more than double the size of his 1.5m hook.

Despite successfully capturing the snake and placing it in a transport bin, tragedy struck when he later attempted to measure its length. The mamba swung on the hook and bit him. With no phone and no one around to help, Ncube endured a gruelling 30-minute walk home, in a state of panic and the rapid effects of the venom. Upon reaching home, he contacted his brother, who sent someone to rush him to Elim Hospital.

“At the hospital, Dr Mukhari and his team acted swiftly, providing life-saving treatment,” Ncube told CV from his hospital bed. Despite Elim Hospital not having anti-venom, the doctor’s quick response saved his life, and he was later discharged after careful observation.

In an effort to educate the public, Ncube has the following advice:

“Killing snakes reduces the production of anti-venom, which is derived from their venom to save lives. They also play a vital role in controlling pests,” he said.

“If bitten, do not panic, avoid drinking anything, and try to remember the snake’s colour and key features to help doctors provide the correct treatment,” he advised.

For snake removals in Vhembe District and surrounding areas, contact Denzel Ncube at 067 798 9796 (calls only) or Makhado SPCA inspector Lawrence Khodobo at 082 965 5151.