Local news

Mamba can’t ‘tyre’ out snake catcher Sarel

If you need a snake removed this summer, contact Sarel on 082 6831604.

Snake catcher Sarel van der Merwe of Shelly Beach drove 55km to remove a black mamba from a school inland of Mtwalume last Saturday.

The mamba had been seen near the school fence but then disappeared into a hole or tyre – no one was quite sure at the time – causing some consternation.

It took Sarel and his partner, Emma-Jane Cox, about an hour – in the sweltering heat – to extricate the deadly snake.

The snake, a male, was measured at a smidgeon under three metres before being placed safely in a travelling box to be rehomed.

“It was a hot day, so I offered the mamba a beer, and he happily accepted,” joked Sarel.

On a more serious note, he said it was hard work but that he was passionate about rescuing and relocating snakes.

“October is known for its warm weather, ideal for snakes as they venture out after hibernation,” he warned.

Sarel and Emma-Jane waved goodbye to the community, which was delighted that the snake had been caught and they could return to living in a safe environment.

If you need a snake removed this summer, contact Sarel on 082 6831604.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like the South Coast Herald’s Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram

At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!

Support local journalism

Add The Citizen as a preferred source to see more from South Coast Herald in Google News and Top Stories.

Back to top button