Shelly Beach snake catcher busy with rescues as temperatures rise
From residential streets to industrial sites, Sarel van der Merwe's expertise keeps both people and snakes safe.
Snake catcher, Sarel van der Merwe of Shelly Beach, has kicked off spring with a flurry of call-outs, proving that warmer weather means more encounters with slithery residents.
Late last month, Sarel responded to a tense situation on the R102, between Port Shepstone and Hibberdene, where a twig, or vine snake had ended up on the dashboard of a grader after the driver hit some branches. “Vine snakes are incredibly well camouflaged and very shy,” Sarel explains.
“They prefer trees and shrubs and will only strike as a last resort, using a series of warning tactics first.” Although their venom is potent, it’s slow-acting and delivered inefficiently, making bites rare and treatable in hospital.
A week later, on October 4, Sarel encountered a green mamba in Shelly Beach, unusual because this species is rarely found on the ground. The snake had caught a rat at the base of a Natal strelitzia, giving Sarel another reminder that these encounters can happen anywhere.
Two days later, Oslo Beach Fire Department called him out to Port Shepstone after a snake disappeared under a traffic patrol vehicle. With the help of Supa Quick, the team lifted the vehicle and Sarel safely removed a harmless spotted bush snake.
His work continued a few days later at the NPC Simuma quarries in Oribi, where a night adder was discovered at the plant. “Night adder venom is cytotoxic, causing pain and swelling, but is not lethal to humans,” Sarel says. “Even so, it should never be underestimated, especially for children or those with compromised immunity.”
With temperatures rising, Sarel warns that more snakes will be venturing out, seeking food and shelter. “Spring and summer always mean more snake activity,” he says.
“People need to be aware, but also remember that most snakes are shy and will avoid humans if given the chance.”
To contact Sarel for snake removal on the South Coast, you can reach him on 082 6831604.
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