Living with Snakes

Snakes are undoubtedly the most fascinating of our vertebrate animals. Whilst it is only a very small percentage of people who look on snakes with affection, everyone has a story, myth or opinion on them. People are amazed by snakes, whether it is because of their connections to the biblical serpents, unique lifestyle, or that some species can kill with deadly poisons. Snakes are a great conversation starter. It is unfortunate that most of these conversations are not based on fact. There are many popular stories about snakes which are so far from the truth, it is hard to credit that anyone can believe them.

In Australia, we have many large and / or potentially deadly snakes, and this fuels peoples' fear of them and leads to many harmless snakes and even lizards being killed. Most people in Australia have a snake in their yard at some time; many are permanent residents, and have shared our yards with us for many years. It is only when people actually see them that they are aware of their existence.

Snakes are rarely aggressive and prefer to slip away rather than confront something as large as a human. They can also be an asset around the home. Many snakes eat rodents and other pests.

Threats to snake survival

Habitat destruction - as more bush is destroyed, snakes are forced to move into residential areas seeking food and shelter.
Cane toads - many snakes eat frogs and toads, but unfortunately the introduced cane toad will kill them with its poison.
Cars - snakes are often killed attempting to cross roads.

Bayside snakes

These are not a threat to humans

Carpet python common

Green tree snake common

Brown tree snake uncommon

White-crowned snake common

Marsh snake uncommon

Common keelback common

These can be dangerous and should be avoided

Red-bellied black snake uncommon

Yellow faced whip snake common

Small eyed snake common

Eastern brown snake uncommon

All snakes are protected. There is seldom a justifiable reason to kill one. Potentially dangerous snakes can be relocated by trained snake handlers. Untrained persons should never attempt to relocate or kill them. Around 90 per cent of those people bitten by snakes are attempting to catch or kill them. Give snakes room and there should be no conflict.

Simple ways to avoid problems

Watch for snakes basking in the sun on tracks or pathways.
Wear boots if walking through long grass.
Stamping your feet will alert snakes to your presence and should avoid unnecessary confrontation.
Beware of wood piles or old car parts where snakes may have made a home.

If you need assistance with a snake, call either National Parks and Wildlife Service (07) 3202 0200) or the Conservation section of your local Council. Wildlife groups may also be able to supply details of competent snake handlers.