Vine snakes aplenty in Richards Bay
Vine snakes, although not known to bite often, are highly venomous and make use of haemotoxic venom to kill their prey - much like the boomslang.
RICHARDS Bay snake catcher Peter Daniel has been on a vine snake catching spree, with four caught in the last week alone.
Vine snakes, although not known to bite often, are highly venomous and make use of haemotoxic venom to kill their prey – much like the boomslang.
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There is no anti-venom for vine snakes as bites are uncommon, but medical attention must be sought as the bite symptoms are treated accordingly.
The first catch of the week was on the premises of Bell Equipment in Alton when a snake dropped down next to an unsuspecting employee who was taking a cigarette break.
The second vine snake was caught in Meerensee, after a domestic worker spotted it on a washing line. Daniel said the third catch was slightly more difficult as the snake, seen slithering along the top of a gate, was subsequently hosed down by the resident.
He warned against such an approach as it could cause the snake to flee out of sight, making it more difficult for a snake catcher to remove. This can also agitate the snake, and lead to aggressive behaviour.
It’s best to keep a watchful eye on the snake while contacting a professional to remove it. The fourth and final snake of the week was spotted outside a resident’s front door in Birdswood.
Luckily the homeowner acted appropriately and the snake was safely removed. ‘Residents are urged to be cautious of snakes, even in the colder weather, as snakes can often still be active during this time,’ said Daniel.
Snake catchers in Richards Bay and Empangeni:
Peter Daniel – 076 0516420
Danie Nel – 083 6611232
Fred Lubbe – 066 2433377
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