Black mamba removed from Adams home

LOCAL snake wrangler, Shaun White assisted in removing a black mamba from a man’s home in Adams Mission on Monday, 26 August, and urges people to take care when confronted by one.

White was called in by Toti SPCA.

“When I entered the cluttered room, I could smell curry leaves, which is a sure sign of a black mamba being nearby,” said Shaun. His wife Zilla White, who is also a certified snake handler, assisted him to locate the snake – and the couple were greeted by the ‘lovely smile’ of a black mamba, her mouth open and in an obviously agitated state.

White explained that black mambas are extremely fast, very twitchy, nervous and highly venomous snakes that will not hesitate to bite if approached. Black mambas have a potent, fast-acting neurotoxic venom that affects the nervous system, and attacks the cardiac and respiratory system. Initial symptoms include a metallic taste in one’s mouth, impaired vision, vomiting, drowsiness, loss of co-ordination, followed by a difficulty to breathe. If not treated promptly, breathing will cease and the heart will stop beating, followed by death.

The snake was removed and will be taken to Ndlondlo Reptile Park in Ballito, where it will be measured and looked over. Once it has been given a clean bill of health, it will be released into a suitable, sustainable habitat.

White warns that, with Spring upon us, reptiles become more active.

“If anyone sees a snake, do not confront it or try to kill or poison it.”

Rather call someone trained in handling snakes to remove it. Toti SPCA (031-904-2424) has contact details for several snake removers. Shaun can be reached on 083-265-1875.

He charges a small call-out fee to cover his time and fuel expenses.