Why snakes have more to fear from us as development destroys habitat

THERE are concerns the pace of development in Rouse Hill and surrounding suburbs will destroy the natural habitat of reptiles and small animals, with many being unknowingly killed during construction work.

THERE are concerns the pace of development in Rouse Hill and surrounding suburbs will destroy the natural habitants of reptiles and small animals, with many being unknowingly killed during construction work.

Rob Ambrose, who works for Snake Catchers Sydney, said he is worried about the future of these animals having seen first hand how their safe areas have been destroyed.

Last week, Mr Ambrose said he was called by a couple at Cudgegong Rd, Rouse Hill, to rescue two eastern brown snakes, who he said had probably been disturbed by the demolition of the neighbouring house.

Snakes Catcher Rob Ambrose has just caught two eastern brown snakes at Rouse Hill.

MEET ROUSE HILL'S MISS TOURISM AUSTRALIA

“The couple who were clearing the house, came across two snakes that appeared to be mating and contacted me,” he said.

“I went out there as this place has been sold and the property next door has already been bulldozed.

“This one will be next, and all life that exists there now will be bulldozed alive.

“I found the snakes under some corrugated iron sheets.

Two eastern brown snakes captured at Rouse Hill.

“It’s a bit sad that they will probably be the last browns from that part of Cudgegong Rd because the rest will not survive along with almost all other reptile and mammal species that have homes there.”

Mr Ambrose, who holds weekly demonstrations of the Eastern Brown snake at La Perouse said people have no reason to fear these snakes.

He wants parents and elders to provide a good example to children regarding the snakes.

“If you see a brown snake, watch it and point it out, be a good example to children by not attempting to harm it, and simply let the snake be,” Mr Ambrose said.

“Don't let your pets attack it and keep them away.

“There is no snake bite fatalities in the area even though snakes are relatively common.”

His fondness for snakes and reptiles has seen Mr Ambrose save and release dozens of them over the years.

“Although this is a feared species by humans, I actually have a huge passion for these creatures (brown snakes) and find them way more interesting than they are dangerous,” the Vineyard resident said.

“They are an active foraging species often sighted, and due to their elaborate defensive display they put on if interfered with, there are exaggerated stories from people.

“Even though their venom is in the highest toxicity category they have small fangs and relatively small venom yields.

“Snake bites are not a significant cause of mortality in Australia and simply being around this species is not a reason for concern — the fact remains that bites are relatively rare.”