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Snake catcher nabs aggressive, massive black mamba [PICS]

Sarel van der Merwe's breakfast plans were cut short when he was called to help remove the snake.

April 25, 2024
Shona Aylward 1 minute read
Shaun Havenga (left) and Sarel van der Merwe with the black mamba.

Three metres and counting was the length of the black mamba that South Coast’s legendary snake catcher, Sarel van der Merwe caught yesterday (Wednesday).

ALSO READ: Midnight rescue for massive python

Brave Sarel travelled some 25km inland from Sea Park to a homestead in KwaMadlala to assist a family.

Quite a size, for sure! Sarel van der Merwe with the black mamba.

“I was having breakfast with my friend, Shaun Havenga when I got the phone call. I had to leave my breakfast and dash. Police from Southport Saps was kind enough to escort us to the house so I could help the family,” he said.

The deadly black mamba was found inside the kitchen of the homestead.

The black mamba near the stove in the kitchen.

“This is certainly the biggest black mamba I have caught for the season,” he said.

Sarel said the snake was extremely aggressive as well.

Sarel van der Merwe puts the black mamba in the ‘snake box’.

It must be noted, that black mambas don’t hibernate during winter, and Sarel seems to think this male mamba was looking for food in the house.

ALSO READ: Mambas don’t hibernate during winter

The mamba was safely released today (Thursday) in an area far away from humans.

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April 25, 2024
Shona Aylward 1 minute read

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shonaaylward

Shona Aylward is a vastly experienced journalist working as a senior reporter. Aside from her extensive community involvement and story writing, she is also involved in creative page layout, and the various media platforms. Shona began her career with Caxton at the Southlands Sun. Previous to this she worked in the marketing industry for surf magazines. Shona is a renown 'greenie' and champions environmental causes. She is also Mom to a number of dogs and cats, and the occasional uninvited snake. When she can find some spare time, it's usually to the beach that she heads.
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