Of the numerous snakes indigenous to Australia 100 are considered venomous, with only 12 of these regarded as lethal. For the large part snakes will avoid contact with humans, though we continue to encroach on their habitat, which makes encountering a snake increasingly common. As native snakes are protected species it is preferable for you to contact a snake handler or pest control expert to remove it, rather than attempt to kill it yourself. Most bites actually occur when people try catch or kill a snake, so be warned!

Snakes will generally retreat when encountered, but can attack if hurt or if they feel threatened. If you encounter a snake on your property stay calm, watch the snake and call a snake handler or pest control agent immediately. They will usually capture the snake and transfer it to a safe location away from human habitation.

Limit your chances of creating prime snake habitat on your property by following these simple guidelines:

• ensure there are no firewood or log piles in your garden
• keep your grass cut low
• eliminate rodent pests from your property via the appropriate methods
• when gardening take care in heavily vegetated areas
• ensure your family is aware of snakes and how to behave around them

Snakes are part of our natural heritage and should not be persecuted or unnecessarily exterminated.