Look out, snake season is upon us!

Themba Gadebe, metro spokesperson, said the metro wishes to caution pet owners to be on high alert and keep an eye on their domestic pets as they may fall prey to snakes.

“From mid-August until late May is snake season and a number of snakes which are harmless to humans, such as the brown house snake, Arora house snake, olive house snake and red-lipped snake are likely to be found in backyard gardens searching for food like rats and cats,” said Gadebe.

“Due to their harmless and less defensive nature, these species tend to be easily killed or captured as pets, an illegal and punishable act if one does not have a legal permit.

“Meanwhile, snakes such the puff adder and rinkhals are extremely dangerous, with the puff adder known to be very instinctive, slow in pace and quick to sense danger.

“The rinkhals or ring-necked cobra is a fast moving multi feeder which is good at faking death. It is easily identified by the two white stripes that are visible across its neck when it spreads its hood.”

Things to do when you come across a snake:

• Give the snake a right of way;
• You can scream and shout but don’t jump or move;
• Keep a distance of about 5 meters from the snake as some snakes can spit poison;
• Watch where the snake ends up so as to assist to locate the reptile once you’ve contacted an expert;
• Do not try to kill the snake, trying to kill the snake may lead to the danger of snake bites;
• Call for help.

What to do if bitten by a snake or spat on the eyes or an open wound:

• Do not panic;
• Do not run or try to drive yourself;
• ·Do not take it for granted;
• Get medical attention as soon as possible.

Should residents come across snakes in their residential areas, they are may contact Christopher Mthombeni on 011 999 3029 / 083 239 7774 or e-mail chris.mthobeni@ekurhuleni.gov.za for assistance. You may also contact a local snake expert.