One of the most obvious positives of living within the northern area of Roodepoort is the abundance of nature close to residential neighbourhoods.
Be that in the form of a green belt, a veld, or a community park. Of course, a large part of the Northside also consists of smallholdings and new housing developments within agricultural holding areas.
While the proximity to nature holds many lifestyle benefits for residents, it also puts you at a higher risk of crossing paths with the local wildlife. At this time of the year, snakes are quite active in the area. The warm weather results in increased prey like mice, rats, and frogs, while high rainfall forces fossorial species to the surface, resulting in more – and often catastrophic – contact with people.
Common snake species range from the completely harmless Brown House Snake and Brown Water Snake to the mildly venomous Red-Lipped Herald. Also common are the highly venomous Puff Adder, Snouted Cobra, Night Adder, Rinkhals, and the Bibron’s Stiletto Snake.
The African Snakebite Institute holds regular educational courses on common snakes, scorpions, and spider species at the Cradle Moon Lakeside Lodge in Muldersdrift.
The next course on January 27 will cover snake, spider, and scorpion awareness, including basic biology, first aid for bites, as well as myths and superstitions regards these fascinating creatures.
A light lunch is included in the course fees, and after lunch, the action kicks off. Those who fancy themselves brave enough will get the opportunity to handle some of the country’s most feared venomous snakes including a Puff Adder, a Snouted Cobra, and the notorious spitter, the Rinkhals.
Course fees also include coffee, tea and refreshments.
Visit the ASI website, or email courses@asiorg.co.za for course fees and more information.
