Team encounters intriguing world of snake mating and fighting rituals
Simon Keys and Siouxsie Gillett are available to capture and relocate snakes free of charge while filming the series.
STARS of the internationally acclaimed National Geographic Wild series, Snakes in the City, Simon Keys and Siouxsie Gillett, are currently shooting a new season.
After arriving back a month earlier than usual to the shores of Durban, they are witnessing snake mating season. Along with that are the intriguing rituals and fighting associated with it.
“Usually we begin in October or November when the weather has warmed up and snakes are more active, which is the post-mating season. Now, because we are here earlier, we are coming across some rather amazing sights,” said Siouxsie, who is a qualified herpetologist.
“This is a time of the year that you are likely to see more than one snake together – as they are usually solitary creatures. Often people see two or more snakes together and think it may be snakes mating – but it is more than likely two males fighting for dominance,” she added.
“The world of snake mating and reproduction is quite a fascinating one,” said Simon.
“For example, female snakes produce a strong scent to attract males, leaving a scent trail so males can find her. And during the mating season, could attract a whole mass of snakes who have followed her scent, who all end up fighting for her. Quite a scary sight for an untrained eye,” he added.
The male snake having spent winter in hibernation not eating, Siouxsie said, is hungry, but would rather mate at this point than find food.
She added that surprisingly, some species like the black mamba will combat in a non-violent way for the female which is often misunderstood as two snakes mating.
“Most female snakes lay their eggs and leave them. Some snakes, pythons – including the rock python and king cobras, incubate their eggs, and king cobras even build a nest for them.”
“Some even give birth to live young like Adders. So now’s the time to watch out for the fighting and mating, and soon for the babies to be out and about. And we are happy to come to help out to remove them and place them in a safe natural environment,” she said.
Simon and Siouxsie are available to capture and relocate snakes free of charge while filming the series. All filming is done using strict Covid-19 guidelines and regulations.
The caller, with permission and depending on the conditions of the call-out, may end up in the TV series. For a removal, call their hotline on 063 234 6932.
