Far North Queensland on track for massive year of snake bites

Far North Queensland residents are on track to face their worst snake bite year since 2021, with more than 100 incidents so far, surpassing previous annual totals.

Close up image of large python laying on top of a barbecue. Supplied by Leslie Brown from Tablelands Snake Catchers.

Snake bites are on track to reach their highest level in Far North Queensland in recent years.

The Queensland Ambulance Service has responded to at least 123 snake bites so far this year, which is up from 120 in 2024, 98 in 2023 and just 85 in 2022.

Cairns Hospital’s Emergency Department has recorded 157 snake bite presentations this year, the highest since 163 cases were treated in 2023. Almost 80 per cent of those required urgent or immediate medical attention.

Tableland Snake Catcher, Leslie Brown, said more interactions between snakes and humans happen at this time of the year as breeding season begins.

“From September onwards, we often see increases in snake activity as the temperature goes up,” he said.

Large snake laying on outsider container. Supplied by Leslie Brown from Tablelands Snake Catchers.

Snake SeasonTableland Snake catcher Leslie Brown is gearing up for a busy snake season due to heavy rainfall in the region. Picture: Supplied.

“We see more snakes basking, and … more female pythons are slower than normal.

“The most common snake we see is brown tree snakes, as they are a highly adaptable species.

“(But) by far the most common venomous species (we see are) Eastern Browns.”

Large python laying in wooden roof structure of a home under the tin roof. Supplied by Leslie Brown from Tableland Snake Catchers.

Mr Brown said always avoid interacting directly with snakes and try to secure the room before calling in a local catcher.

He also suggested, when safe to do so, take photos of the snake to help professionals identify the species.

However, Mr Brown urged locals to revisit their first aid training, especially if they live in a more remote area.

“Review (your) first aid kit, and make sure (you) are familiar with applying snake bite bandages,” he said.

Record snake bites reported in Far North Queensland in summer 2025. David Walton from Cairns Snake Removals gives advice about staying safe.

It comes after two men were taken to Cairns Hospital recently for snake bites.

Queensland Wildlife Solutions and Cairns Snake Removals, David Walton, said while it has been more quieter than usual, it wont last.

“There’s been a few (snakes) around, but below average for this time of year,” he said.

“When the rain starts, we will probably see a pick-up.

“The most common (species) are pythons and tree snakes, but we do get an odd red belly black or death adder.”

Cairns Hospital - Queensland Health. File photo. Picture: Brendan Radke

If residents find snakes on their property, Mr Walton said they should abide by the “golden rule”.

“Do not try to catch, do not try to kill, do not interfere,” he said.

Queensland Ambulance Service urged anyone bitten by a snake to call triple-0 immediately and keep the patient as still as possible.

They advised against washing the bite before applying pressure bandages, as residue can help medical professionals identify the snake species.

Originally published as Far North Queensland on track for massive year of snake bites