THE Bluff-based snake catcher and enthusiast Warren Dick encountered a rather new face on January 7, when he was called in about a surprise stowaway on a container that arrived at the Durban harbour.

Also read: [Video] Black mamba caught in Clairwood

The workers at the harbour also mentioned that the snake seemed like it was not indigenous to South Africa. Dick was hesitant as to whether the snake was real, until he got a closer look at the fangs.

The snake was identified as a white lipped tree viper, usually found in South East Asia. Dick said it was risky because the guy who found it was holding it behind the head, not knowing much about the snakes.

“These snakes have a hemotoxic venom causing anywhere from mild symptoms to death and seeing there is no anti-venom in South Africa for it, I would not fancy my chances,” said Dick.

When he arrived, the snake was in a five-litre water bottle.

“Apparently the container it came in, came from Singapore. Inside the container was a second-hand car, so I assume the snake was in the car before they loaded it. Quite an amazing journey and lucky to still be alive,” he said.

Since Dick doesn’t keep venomous snakes, he gave the viper to another expert for care that afternoon. This species of snakes is known to be common in the pet trade in South Africa, according to Dick.

People who need help with snake removals or insect identification can contact Warren Dick on 072 211 0353.

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