MBOMBELA – With the summer approaching, Lowvelders not only have heat and sunshine to look forward to but also influx of snakes going into homes.
Mpumalanga Reptile Recovery (MRR) have made it their mission to educate Lowvelders on snakes and to remove them from homes free of charge.
“Just like all other animals, if you keep your distance and respect the snake, it will do the same to you,” said Anneke van Schoor, member of the MRR as well as professional snake handler.
“Snakes are not aggressive, but they are defensive. If you try to attack the snake, it will defend itself,”
van Schoor said.
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According to Chris Hobkirk, also a professional snake handler and member of the MTPA, snakes will gain entry through the most unbelievably small holes or cracks. These spaces provide warm (warmer than outside) places near or in the foundation wall for a snake to spend the winter. In spring, the snakes become active and re-emerge
“So the idea is to seal the cracks and fill the holes during the summer when snakes are not using them. If the holes and cracks are filled while snakes are in the foundation, they may be forced to enter the house or die in the foundation,”
Hobkirk said.
He also suggests getting rid of their food source, mice and rats.
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She has the following tips for when finding a snake in your home:
• Keep calm and do not try to attack it.
• If you do not want to take the snake out of your home yourself, phone the MRR to come and help you.
• Make sure that you stay at least three metres away from the snake.
• Keep your eyes on the snake. If you know where it is it also makes it easier for them to find.
• If your are really scared throw a towel over the snake. They just do not want to be seen and will be more calm.
Van Schoor can be contacted on 079-931-8744.
