Snakes : a peaceful coexistence
- Sleeping Carpet Python: Photo from the edge by Andi Islinger
Snakes are a part of Australia's unique wildlife. They do not enjoy the cute cuddly image of some of our better understood animals, but the fact that they are now protected should make us realise that they are an important part of the environment. Snakes prey on small creatures such as mice, lizards, insects and birds. They have definitely not evolved to prey on man.
Snakes can move fairly quickly, but only for short bursts. An average person can outrun a snake, which is a comforting thought. A snake's method of locomotion is quite laborious, requiring it to get a grip on the ground. Being cold blooded, snakes slow down even more when the temperature is too cold.
A snake's eyesight is not terrific either. Their short range vision is acute but deteriorates rapidly with distance. Snakes have no ears and their hearing mechanism only allows them to pick up low frequency vibrations through the ground, which permits them to detect the footsteps of a human.
A snake's only well- developed sense is that of smell. When a snake flickers its forked tongue, it is actually tasting the air, and an organ inside the mouth computes the taste so the snake knows what it is smelling. Human smell is detected as enemy rather than prey.
When a snake attacks, it has only two ways of killing its victim - by crushing it to death, or by injecting poisonous venom. Nonvenomous species, such as pythons, use the first method and usually pose no threat to humans. Rare deaths have however occurred, so people handling these reptiles need to take every care. It is the venomous species which cause most concern.
Because snakes have no claws, limbs or beaks to grasp their victim, the venom has to be fast acting. It is injected though fangs which act like hypodermic syringes.
Slow movement, poor eyesight and hearing, no means of grasping - the odds are certainly stacked against the snake when it comes to humans. This is why snakes are shy creatures, avoiding humans whenever possible. Snakes are not the aggressive, evil creatures they are often make out to be. Most species are shy retiring animals who like to be left alone. This is good news! In fact, the large snake population compared with actual sightings verifies their shyness.
People do get bitten, although rarely fatally. Snakes will strike, but only when their escape route has been cut off or when they perceive that they are being threatened. Most snake bites occur when people are attempting to kill snakes, or when they accidentally step on one. By understanding snakes, we can reduce the incidence of meeting one. Since snakes detect vibration, always stomp heavily through likely snake areas. If you catch sight of a snake give it plenty of space to retreat. If you are in the way, run. It may not be good for the image but it may save your hide.
Be aware of places in which snakes are likely to be found. Snakes are cold blooded and need to maintain a body temperature of about thirty degrees celsius. On cooler days, they bask on warm ground or rocks. Because they cannot move quickly, especially when cold, snakes will generally bask in areas which are close to shelter where they can retreat
if necessary. Long grass, piles of rubbish, logs or rocks next to open areas would be danger sites.
Likewise, remove piles of rubbish, wood and building materials from around the house or areas frequently visited. If there is no shelter for snakes they will move on. Discourage mice and birds from the house and sheds as these provide easy prey for snakes. Snakes hunt actively on warms days but also at night, so carry a torch and wear suitable clothing if out on a hot night.
Rough-scaled or Clarence River snake
In the colder areas of Australia, snakes hibernate in winter and generally come out around September or October. They are ready to mate at this time so are fairly active. Thick boots and clothing will provide some protection if a snake does strike. If you do find a snake, remember there is a law protecting them and they can only be killed if they are endangering life. If you feel it is necessary to kill or remove a snake, call an expert, don't attempt to do it yourself.
A tip from an old local with many snake stories under his belt is to always keep a freshly raked layer of dirt or dust over your shed floors so you can see if a snake is present by the tracks it leaves.
Snakes are specific to different areas and it is advisable to lean to identify snakes found in your locality. If snakebite does occur it is helpful to know what species is involved so that the correct antivenene can be given. However, nowadays the venom can be identified so never wash the wound.
It is unlikely that a snakebite will prove fatal because usually not enough venom is injected. However, regard all snakebites as emergencies - keep the patient calm and seek help immediately. Apply a pressure bandage to the wound to immobilise the area and restrict the flow of venom. If possible, notify the hospital or doctor and try to reach medical attention within two hours, but the sooner the better.
Snakes have a vital role in the biodiversity of our fragile and distinctive Australian ecosystems. A little knowledge about them and due care on our part, can help us achieve a peaceful coexistence.
Snake hotline - 24hours:
0500 542 222