[WARNING]: Snake feeding frenzy in Ladysmith as winter approaches
With winter approaching, snakes will be much closer to homes and even inside homes, where the temperatures are warmer
Local snake expert Fanie Cilliers says that snakes are going into a feeding frenzy or ‘power feed’ before winter.
Fanie adds that he is inundated with calls for snake removals all over town at the moment. This higher rate of calls is due to snakes wanting to fatten up for the winter months.
Fanie explains that snakes are not like bears, which hibernate during winter. Snakes still move around, but in a shorter range and not as much as they do in summer.
With the colder months approaching, Fanie says snakes will now be much closer to homes and even inside homes, where the temperatures are warmer.
If you encounter a snake, this is what you need to know and do:
Immediately notify your local snake removal team.
Then check that all children and pets are removed from the area.
If the snake is in a room with a door, close the door and place towels in front of the door. You must not leave the area, as the snake can push the towels out of the way, so remain vigilant.
If the snake is in an open plan area, simply keep an eye on it. Never run away, as this increases the chance of the snake not being found. Fanie says it is of utmost importance that the snake is watched from a safe distance.
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“People think that because the snake is in the house, there are no hiding places, but are always amazed as to where I finally find the snake.”
Finally, supply the snake catcher with as much information as possible and let them do their work while you keep children and pets away from the area.
If there is a snake outside your house, you would do the same – keep an eye on it, keep everyone clear and never try to corner the snake, as this will change its behaviour to being defensive. The latter increases the risk of a bite or venom being spat in the eyes.
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