HIGH SCALE DANGER: Orange snake catcher Greg Pringle has had a busy week, attending to two stray eastern brown snakes this week. Photo: STEVE GOSCH
ORANGE snake catcher Greg Pringle has warned residents that some of the country’s deadliest reptiles are out and about as the warmer weather hits.
Mr Pringle, who’s been catching and releasing snakes for more than 30 years, was called to collect two unwanted large eastern brown snakes this week.
He told The Central Western Daily both were found in birdcages, attempting to catch mice.
“Eighty per cent of the eastern brown snake’s diet revolves around mice, so it’s very common to find them in birdcages, chook pens or anywhere where mice can be found,” he said.
“Both snakes were very large and now is the ideal time to warn people that snakes are out and about.”
Some of the most common snakes found in the central west include the deadly eastern brown, as well as the copperhead and red belly black snakes.
“All three snakes are venomous, in fact the eastern brown is the second most toxic snake in Australia,” he said.
“The other two are extremely docile and unless you actually step on one, you’d be very unlucky to be bitten.”
Despite this fact, Mr Pringle has warned people who encounter a snake, they must not attempt to catch or kill it.
“Ninety per cent of people who are bitten by a snake are attempting to either catch it or kill it,” he said.
“You are much better staying calm and leaving the snake alone. Snakes react to movement, so make sure you stay still.”
Mr Pringle said some handy hints that should ensure snakes stay away from your home include keeping your yard clean, and making sure the grass is short.
“Just make sure you stay alert, especially in the early mornings and evening because that’s when they’re at their most active,” he said.
“If you do encounter a snake, make sure you watch where it goes in your yard, and ring WIRES immediately.”