Lexi Webster
Australia is home to a wide variety of snakes, ranging from the deadly eastern brown snake to the harmless carpet python. These snakes can be found in almost every type of ecosystem across the continent, from the dry outback to coastal forests and suburban areas. With their venomous bites and elusive nature, some Australian snakes are known to be extremely dangerous and should be treated with caution and respect. However, it is important to remember that snakes are inherently non-aggressive and will only strike if they feel threatened. This article will provide an introduction to the diverse world of Australian snakes, exploring their behaviour, habitats, and the precautions to be taken when encountering these fascinating creatures.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Behaviour | Snakes are inherently non-aggressive and generally seek to avoid confrontation. They will only strike if they feel threatened. |
| Habitat | Australian snakes are found in nearly every type of ecosystem, from the dry outback to coastal forests. |
| Species | Snakes in Australia can be classified into two main groups: the solid-toothed, non-venomous varieties like pythons, blind snakes, and file snakes, and venomous rear-fanged snakes, such as the brown tree snake and mangrove snakes. |
| Danger | Australian snakes are known to be the most dangerous in the world. |
| Venom | The venom of the red-bellied black snake contains neurotoxins and anticoagulants but is far less toxic than that of the taipan or brown snake. |
| Prevention | Do not stomp your feet when you see a snake, as this will provoke it to bite. Instead, stay still and let the snake move away. |
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What You'll Learn
How to catch a snake without getting bitten
It is important to remember that snakes are a natural part of the environment in Australia and will only bite in self-defence, typically when they feel threatened or cornered. If left alone, the risk of being bitten is very low. If you do come across a snake, the best thing to do is to slowly walk out of the way. Avoid erratic movements, stomping, or doing anything that might be seen as threatening. Most snakes will leave on their own within a short time.
If you are in your home, try to keep an eye on the snake at all times. If it is isolated to one room, close the door and wedge a damp towel under the crack of the door to ensure it can't escape. Make sure you do this with a long object to minimise the risk of getting bitten. Once secured, call your local snake catcher to have an expert safely identify the snake and remove it from your home.
If you are out in the bush, it is important to remember that you are a guest in the snake's natural habitat. There are many ways to avoid coming into contact with snakes, the simplest of which is keeping a keen eye on the trail ahead. In dense, bushy areas, always wear long pants or garters to protect the ankles from potential bites, and wear solid, closed-in shoes. Stick to designated trails at all times and avoid venturing into grassy, covered areas without the right protective gear.
If you absolutely must catch a snake, it is recommended to start with practising wrist movements and techniques on a rubber snake or a thick piece of rope. Once you're confident in that, move on to practising on a harmless snake species. Snake sticks can be used to pin a snake down before it manages to slither into cluttered areas. This feature is especially helpful if you're catching one in a house or somewhere where the process can be complicated by objects. It also allows you to subdue the snake while people vacate the area.
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How to cook a snake
Snake meat is somewhere between chicken and fish in texture and flavour. If you're cooking a snake from Australia, it's important to ensure that it hasn't eaten a poisoned rodent.
To cook a snake, start by cutting off its head, removing its skin, and taking out the guts. Then, cut the meat into smaller pieces, being careful to cut between the ribs and at the same angle as them so they don't break apart in the meat. Some people prefer to soak the meat in saltwater for a couple of days to remove any remaining blood. Next, dip the pieces of meat in egg whites before dredging them in pepper and sweet cornmeal mix.
Finally, fry the meat in cooking oil in a pan until the batter turns golden, then serve warm with napkins—this is finger food! There should be a line of muscle along either side of the spine, which is the thickest piece of meat on the snake's body. The ribs are quite firmly attached to the spine, so scrape your teeth over them to remove the rest of the meat.
One person who cooked an Eastern brown snake in the Australian outback reported that their first attempt at cooking the snake—spearing it on a stick and cooking it over a fire—was poor. The next night, they made the snake into a donut shape, wrapped it in tinfoil, packed the chest cavity with herbs and butter, and reported that it was "bloody delicious".
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What to do if bitten by an Australian snake
Snake bites are a common occurrence in Australia, with around 3,000 cases reported each year. It is important to know what to do in case you are ever bitten by a snake. Here are some detailed instructions to follow if you ever find yourself in such a situation:
Keep Calm and Stay Still:
If you are bitten by a snake, it is essential to remain calm and still. Avoid panicking and try to keep your movements to a minimum. Ask someone to call an ambulance by dialling triple zero (000) immediately. If you are alone, put your phone on speaker and keep very still while waiting for emergency services to arrive.
Apply First Aid:
Basic first aid knowledge can be life-saving in snake bite situations. First, lie down to prevent the venom from spreading upwards in your body. Then, apply a pressure immobilisation bandage. Start by placing a roller bandage (10-15 cm wide) directly over the bite, marking the site with an 'X'. Then, use another roller bandage and start from just above the fingers or toes, wrapping it upwards on the limb as far as possible. Ensure the bandage is applied firmly without hindering blood circulation.
Get to a Hospital:
All snake bites in Australia should be treated as potentially life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. Even if you are unsure whether the snake injected venom, it is crucial to seek treatment. Do not try to catch or kill the snake, as many Australian snakes are protected species, and identification is not necessary for anti-venom purposes.
Prevent Snake Bites:
To avoid snake bites, it is important to be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking through long grass, shrubbery, or near holes in the ground, rock crevices, or fallen logs, where snakes like to hide. Wear thick clothing like jeans and boots for extra protection. Remember that snakes generally only bite when provoked, so if you see one, give it space and do not aggravate it.
Remember, snake bites can be dangerous, but staying calm, administering first aid, and seeking immediate medical attention can significantly improve your chances of recovery.
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Where to find snakes in Australia
Australia is home to over 200 species of snakes, and they can be found in a variety of habitats across the country. While snake sightings are rare in Australia, knowing where to find them can help you avoid them or, if you're a snake enthusiast, increase your chances of spotting one.
Urban Areas
Snake sightings in Australia's urban areas, including its busy capital cities like Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne, are uncommon but not unheard of. In recent years, there have been increasing reports of venomous snakes in these highly urbanized areas. These include deadly species like the eastern brown, red-bellied black, and tiger snakes. Snakes are often found in people's homes, pools, or even falling through sky lights!
Rural and Natural Habitats
If you're venturing outside urban areas, you're more likely to encounter snakes in their natural habitats. This includes coastal rainforests, arid deserts, and alpine regions. When exploring these areas, be vigilant and watch where you're walking. Keep in mind that snakes are experts at hiding and fleeing from humans, so you might not even know they're there.
Farms, Parklands, and Forests
Snake sightings are more frequent in rural areas, particularly around farms, parklands, and heavily forested areas. If you're walking in the countryside or bush, be extra cautious and aware of your surroundings. Keep in mind that snakes are more active during the warmer months and may be looking for water sources, so be vigilant during summer.
Timing and Weather
The time of day and weather conditions can also impact your chances of spotting snakes. Some snakes are nocturnal and active only during the warmer nights, while others are crepuscular, moving around at dusk. Additionally, heavy rain can drive certain snake species to higher ground, making them more visible, but it can also force them underground, making them harder to spot.
Remember, while it's fascinating to observe these creatures in their natural habitat, always prioritize your safety. Most snakes will avoid humans and will only attack if they feel threatened or provoked. Keep a respectful distance, and if you're ever concerned about a snake, contact a professional snake catcher for assistance.
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How to avoid snakes in Australia
Australia is home to about 170 species of land snakes, with around 100 of these species being venomous. While snakes play a crucial role in the ecosystem, most people would prefer to keep them at a distance, especially in their homes and gardens. Here are some tips to avoid snakes in Australia:
In your garden
- Keep your garden tidy and well-maintained. Snakes love hiding in piles of wood, leaves, compost, and general clutter. Ensure that you store firewood away from your home and elevate it off the ground. Regularly clean up fallen leaves and debris, and consider using sealed compost bins instead of open piles.
- Control rat and mouse populations by securing garbage bins and avoiding leaving pet food out. Snakes are often attracted to gardens due to the abundance of food, particularly rodents.
- Avoid having tall grasses and overgrown vegetation, as they provide perfect hiding spots for snakes. Regularly mow your lawn and prune shrubs to deter snakes from taking refuge in your garden.
- Minimise water features or ensure they are well-maintained with no hiding spots nearby. Snakes are attracted to water, especially in Australia's hot climate.
- Install snake-proof fencing. The fence should be buried at least 15-20 cm underground and stand at least 60 cm above the ground. The mesh should be fine enough to prevent snakes from squeezing through.
- Use snake deterrent devices such as vibrating stakes or ultrasound repellents. These devices emit vibrations that snakes dislike, keeping them away from your garden.
When hiking or in the bush
- Wear solid footwear and long pants when in areas where snakes are known to be present. Avoid walking off-trail or through long grass without the right protective gear.
- Use trekking poles, especially in areas with dense undergrowth. Be careful where you put your hands, including when collecting firewood.
- Remember to look where you place your feet and don't assume that trails are clear just because you can see them. Snakes can often be coiled up on trails, and you might mistake them for sticks.
- If you see a snake, stand still and try to determine what it is doing. Once you have assessed the situation, move away slowly in the opposite direction and allow the snake to pass by. Never try to kill or handle a snake, as this is illegal in most states and can lead to bites.
- Familiarise yourself with the common snakes in your region, their habits, preferred habitats, and the potential risks they pose. This will help you take the necessary preventive measures and know how to react if you encounter a snake.
- Always carry a first aid kit and know how to apply pressure immobilisation to yourself or others in case of a snakebite. Know how to manage shock and other issues that may arise.
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Frequently asked questions
Snakes in Australia vary in size and behaviour and can be found in nearly every type of ecosystem, from the dry outback to coastal forests. To avoid snakes, make extra noise when travelling on foot through grasslands and snake areas. Wear socks and boots, and don't lift large rocks or dead wood.
Do not panic. Snakes are inherently non-aggressive and will only strike if they feel threatened. Remain composed and walk in the opposite direction. Do not stomp your feet or try to catch or kill the snake.
Apply a pressure immobilisation bandage immediately. It helps to slow down the movement of the venom in the body. Do not make it too firm, it shouldn't stop the blood flow. The bandage should be firm enough to compress the lymph vessels. It should stay in place until a doctor takes care of you.
