Snake alert in the suburbs as the weather warms up

AN ERRANT red-bellied black snake had to be enticed from under a brick wall.

Australian Snake Catchers contained this red bellied black snake in a retaining wall at a St Clair property.

AN ERRANT red-bellied black snake was found in a St Clair home on Saturday.

Snake catchers Sean and Freya Cade received the first call about the snake around 11am but as it was hidden they decided to respond to other calls.

The eastern brown snake is a common culprit in snakebites on humans and domestic pets.

“I told the woman to keep an eye on it,” Mr Cade said. “We’ve got to wait till it comes out. My wife took the next call at 12.15pm. It had come out and gone underneath the bricks.”

While Freya located the snake, Sean had to handle it because his wife is a allegeric to horses – which are used to create antivenom.

Eventually, the snake came out and was caught successfully.

The Cades caught four red-bellied black snakes, one eastern brown and an eastern water dragon on Saturday and Mr Cade urged people to be prepared and informed ahead of snake season.

“September to March or April is generally the season for snakes,” Mr Cade said.

“About 95 per cent of people are bitten by a venomous snake trying to catch or kill it.

“You reduce your risk of being bitten by 95 per cent if you leave it alone.”

As spring begins to settle in Sean Cade has a couple of tips on how to deal with snakes and snake bites.

A red-belly black snake.

An eastern bearded water dragon.

Be alert:

1. Keep your yard clear of debris, excessive leaves and pet food

2. Do not buy a snake repellent as it actually attracts snakes rather than deter them

3. If you do see a snake do not approach it but call a professional

If you have been bitten:

1. Bandage the bite to slow spreading

2. Don’t move around or clean the wound

3. Call an ambulance

“We’re available 24 seven if anyone needs us,” Mr Cade said.