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Snake catcher Bronte from Newcastle Snake Control. Image: Supplied <\/p>\nSnake sightings across Newcastle and the Hunter are increasing following a week of heavy rain and the return of warmer weather.<\/p>\n
And, residents have been urged to stay alert in parks, playgrounds and bushland areas, where they\u2019re more likely to encounter the slithering scaly reptiles.<\/p>\n
Local snake catcher Bronte, who operates Newcastle Snake Control, admitted she had already seen a noticeable rise in activity and expects the callouts to increase.<\/p>\n
\u201cSnakes are cold-blooded animals and rely on external heat to move and hunt,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cFriday is forecast to be hot\u2026 so, I am expecting a lot more calls.\u201d<\/p>\n
Public picnic areas are common locations for sightings, particularly where food, water and shelter are available.<\/p>\n
\u201cFood scraps left behind bring rodents\u2026 and rodents are a food source for snakes,\u201d Bronte said.<\/p>\n
The warning comes after a red-bellied black snake was recently spotted at Speers Point Park.<\/p>\n
Bronte said the species was very common across the region.<\/p>\n
\u201cI get calls for red-bellied black snakes at least once a day,\u201d she told the Newcastle Weekly.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey are very versatile and live in a wide range of environments.\u201d<\/p>\n
Other species commonly encountered in the area include diamond pythons, marsh snakes, golden-crowned snakes and common tree snakes.<\/p>\n
Eastern browns are also present, particularly around Maitland, Mayfield East and some coastal locales.<\/p>\n
Bronte said it was not realistic to make parks, playgrounds or homes completely snake-proof.<\/p>\n
\u201cEven houses are not snake-proof,\u201d she added.<\/p>\n
\u201cPeople leave doors open and snakes can get inside.\u201d<\/p>\n
Snake catcher Bronte from Newcastle Snake Control. Image: Supplied <\/p>\n
Parents and carers are urged not to panic if a snake is spotted, particularly in outdoor public spaces.<\/p>\n
\u201cThat snake at Speers Point, for example, is in its natural environment,\u201d Bronte said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe best thing to do is give it space and keep children out of garden areas.\u201d<\/p>\n
Youngsters should also be taught to alert an adult if they see a snake and never attempt to approach or catch it.<\/p>\n
Adults must model the same behaviour, too.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is illegal to harm or kill native wildlife, including snakes,\u201d Bronte said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey do not see humans as food.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are predators to them\u2026 and they want to avoid us.\u201d<\/p>\n
Bronte explained most bites occur when the general public try to catch snakes themselves, rather than calling a professional. <\/p>\n
Meanwhile, locals are encouraged to familiarise themselves with snakebite first aid and carry a snakebite kit.<\/p>\n
Pet owners were also advised to watch for unusual behaviour in their animals and ensure local veterinarians have access to antivenom.<\/p>\n
Call volumes vary throughout the year and during the warmer months, however Bronte receives between 10 and 12 per day.<\/p>\n
And, she\u2019s available around the clock, especially as the hot weather continues.<\/p>\n
\u201cSnakes have always been here,\u201d Bronte said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are just noticing them more.\u201d<\/p>\n
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