‘Thousands’ of snakes on the move in NSW and Qld in search of dry ground

It’s not just people looking to escape the rain. Something more sinister is also looking for dry ground, prompting a warning to ‘be aware’.

As torrential rain continues to wreak havoc on parts of NSW and Queensland, another threat has emerged.

Residents in drenched areas have also been warned to be on the lookout for snakes.

Gold Coast and Brisbane snake catcher Tony Harrison said “thousands” of the reptiles would be looking for dry land after their homes became submerged.

“Think about what higher ground is,” he said on Facebook.

“And be aware.”

The two states have been inundated with rain in recent days, causing flash flooding and devastating damage. NCA NewsWire / Scott Powick

Mr Harrison said it wasn’t just tree snakes that would be on the move.

“It’s also those that live underground,” he told NCA NewsWire.

“When you’ve got torrential rain they want to come up for a breather.”

Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers 24/7 and Snake Catchers Brisbane and Gold Coast have also issued similar warnings after the reptiles were located hiding in a door track and barbecue.

This reptile is hiding next to a barbecue gas bottle to keep dry. Picture: Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers 24/7

Another was found nestled in a door track. Picture: Snake Catchers Brisbane and Gold Coast

Mr Harrison said snakes might be more likely to make themselves comfortable in people’s homes, garages or backyards, but they wouldn’t be inclined to take up permanent residence.

“They have a home,” he said.

“They also have a routine just like you and me.”

Mr Harrison said if a snake encountered a person, it would likely soon relocate.

“They do not want to come into contact with us,” he said.