Shelly Beach snake catcher removes venomous visitors
Sarel van der Merwe responds to puff adder and black mamba call-outs on the South Coast.
Well-known Shelly Beach snake catcher Sarel van der Merwe had his hands full recently after responding to three separate and potentially dangerous call-outs – one on a farm in Paddock and another at a home in Blekwana Location.
The first incident saw him travelling to a farm in Paddock after residents discovered a puff adder in their garden.
Puff adders are regarded as one of the most dangerous snakes in South Africa due to their potent cytotoxic venom. The venom causes severe pain, extensive swelling and blistering, and in many cases can result in significant tissue damage if not treated promptly.
Sarel safely located and removed the snake from the property without incident.
He explained that there are often misconceptions about puff adders and reproduction. While many people believe they ‘give birth’ in the same way as mammals, the process is somewhat deceptive.
All reptiles produce eggs. In the case of the puff adder, the eggs are formed and retained inside the mother’s body during incubation. The young hatch internally before being born alive – a process known as ovoviviparity.
A few days later, Sarel was called out again – this time to Blekwana Location, close to the Wild Coast Sun – where a black mamba had been spotted inside a home.
“I didn’t have to look too far to find him hidden behind the freezer,” he said.
On Monday last week, Sarel safely removed a massive black mamba from a chicken coop in Shobeni.
He responded to the call-out alongside Emma Jane-Cox, who captured striking photographs of Sarel with the reptile during the rescue.Black mambas are among Africa’s most feared snakes due to their speed and highly toxic venom. Fortunately, Sarel was able to safely capture and remove the snakes without anyone being harmed.
He urged residents across the South Coast to remain vigilant, especially during the warmer months when snake activity increases.
Homeowners are advised not to attempt to catch or kill snakes themselves, but rather to contact a qualified snake catcher for assistance.
To contact Sarel for snake removal on the South Coast, you can reach him on 082 6831604.
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