Snakes on the move in Zululand region – here’s what to do (and not do)

With the flurry of snake activity across the Zululand region as winter turns to spring and temperatures heat up, local snake catchers are in high demand.

“It looks like a busy season, so please spare a thought for the network of individuals who donate their time and resources to make it a little safer,” said Hluhluwe-based Snake Pharm’s Donald Schultz.

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While calling for snake removal experts is far more preferable than attempting to remove the snake yourself, Schultz has some advice.

Schultz’s key do’s and don’ts

• Save the number for your nearest snake catcher. The network of snake catchers can dispatch someone closest to you, but having your local number helps

• Don’t call multiple people. Snake catchers work together and will either refer or commit to responding to the call-out

• Lock up pets immediately. If bitten, get people or pets to the nearest hospital

• Safely get a photo (2-3m away is fine, but safety first) – not zoomed in – showing the snake’s head or a good part of the body. Many snakes are harmless and can be left alone, freeing up handlers for critical cases

• Send your address, GPS pin or live location and directions

• Keep your phone handy and update the catcher if the situation changes

• Call immediately. Hours later is often useless, snakes move fast!

• Offer fuel money. Rescuers are private individuals and volunteers, passionate about conservation, but petrol costs real money. Donate even if they don’t find the snake; unsuccessful captures often take more effort. Please know it’s not guaranteed

• Have someone keep a constant eye on the snake and, if possible, get someone else to meet the rescuer on the street to speed up arrival

• Don’t harass or kill the snake. This is asking for trouble with antivenom shortages. If the catcher arrives to a dead or injured snake, it’s not only disappointing, it’s cruel.

• Don’t leave. If you’re gone when the catcher arrives, no one knows what’s going on

For snake removals in Empangeni, Richards Bay and surrounding areas, contact ‘Fearless’ Fred Lubbe on 066 2433377 or Peter ‘Daring’ Daniel on 076 0516420.

For snake emergencies in the Hluhluwe area, contact Donald Schultz on 064 2082465.

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