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.
The City of Ekurhuleni cautions 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 five metres away, and not try to kill or handle the snake, said Themba Gadebe, spokesperson for the metro.
A snake should be given right of way rather than having their way blocked, and sight of where it ends up should not be lost while help is sought.
The Ekurhuleni region is prone to snakes due to the availability of the Blesbokspruit river system, Bullfrog Pan, all other highveld grasslands and many open spaces with good eco-systems that provide both food and shelter for snakes.
Read: Meet Simon and Siouxsie from Snakes in the City at Carnival City
Beware of the puff adder and rinkhals, as they are extremely dangerous.
The puff adder is known to be very instinctive, slow in pace with a quick sense of danger.
The rinkhals, or ring-necked cobra, is a fast-moving multi-feeder that 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.
Not all snakes are venomous, however, should a snake bite a resident, it is advisable to visit a 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 are the primary food for snakes.
Use your municipal 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, Brakpan residents can call the city’s dedicated snake catchers:
• Mapesaka Maleka: 079 180 9231
• Lucky Mahlangu: 083 237 7137
• Mbali Masango: 081 043 5354
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or Stacy Slatter (news editor) stacys@caxton.co.za
or Miné Fourie (journalist) minev@caxton.co.za
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