The weather is getting warmer as the spring season sets in, and snakes will soon be coming out from hibernation hungry and in search of food.
According to Nhlanhla Cebekhulu, spokesperson for the City of Ekurhuleni, the metro wishes to caution pet owners to be on high alert and keep an eye on their pets as they may fall prey to snakes.
“Residents should not panic when they spot a snake in their living spaces. However, they should always keep the snake within their vision at a distance of about 5 m away, and not try to kill or handle the snake,” said Cebekhulu.
“A snake should be given a right of way rather than having their way being blocked, and a sight of where it ends up should not be lost, while help is sought.”
Cebekhulu said the Ekurhuleni region is prone to snakes due to the availability of the Blesbokspruit river system, Bullfrog Pan and all other Highveld grassland and many open spaces with good eco-systems that provide both food and shelter for snakes.
“Beware of the puff adder and rinkhals, as they are extremely dangerous with the puff adder known to be very instinctive, slow in pace and quick to sense danger.
Cebekhulu said not all snakes are poisonous, however, should a snake bite a resident, it is advisable to visit the medical doctor immediately.
“Furthermore, residents are cautioned to avoid snakes in their spaces by keeping the yard clean, as an untidy yard creates a habitat for rodents which is the primary food for snakes.
“Use your municipal 240ℓ wheelie bins to dispose your refuse as this may also be food for rodents which will attract snakes.
“Finally, when feeding your pets put out enough for the day, don’t have extra food on site to avoid feeding rodents.
In case of encountering a snake, residents can call the City’s snake catchers Makhosonke Mabena on 071 833 6549 or Sonny Katisa on 084 451 1288.
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