Hunter residents urged to remain vigilant as snake sightings rise

BY JARROD MELMETH

Outdoor enthusiasts are being urged to remain on the lookout for snakes as the weather warms up.

Snake sightings have increased across the Hunter, prompting the Australian Reptile Park to issue an alert to families in lockdown who are partaking in bush walks.

Australia is home to the world's most venomous snakes, and sees approximately 3000 snake bites occur per year, of which around 300 receive antivenom, and on average, around two people die from those bites.

Reptile Keeper Jake Meney says anyone who goes bushwalking should be well versed in snake first aid.

"It is every Australians responsibility to know what to do if they were to be bitten by a venomous snake.

"If you were to be bitten what you would want to do is apply a pressure immobilization bandage to the bitten limb. You would then immobilise the limb, immobilise the victim and get them to medical attention as quickly as possible.

If you encounter a snake, Mr Meney says to remain calm, do not disturb the snake and it should go away on it's own.

Residents are also being reminded to take preventative action to deter snakes from entering backyards by keeping grass areas mowed and well maintained; avoid piling up left over wood or accumulating stick piles; and to no allow rubbish or scrap materials to build up around the home, as these areas provide a safe house for snakes.

Image: Australia Reptile Park

Snake and Spider Activity Increases with the Hunter's Warm Weather

BY GEORGIA LUPTON

The warmer weather has prompted an increase in spider and snake activity across the Hunter.

In the 12 months to the 31st of August 2016, paramedics attended 100 snake and spider incidents across the Hunter.

Last week, a 10 year old Upper Hunter boy was airlifted to the John Hunter Hospital after a suspected spider bite.

The Australian Reptile Park's snake and spider expert, Dan Rumsey says seasonal changes encourage the critters to come out and play.

“Once spring kicks in, as the temperature increases and we also get a little bit more rainfall that encourages animals to become a little bit more active, and also, its breeding season as well.”

Funnel Web Spider

Mr Rumsey says there are a few simple tips to follow to avoid having an unexpected visitor in your yard.

“Try and keep your backyard clear of clutter. If you have young children, it’s really important to educate them about the dangers relating to snakes and spiders.”

“If you ever do see a snake in your backyard the best thing to do is to simply go inside and leave the snake alone it’ll most likely move on anyway,” he says.

Dan Rumsey says in the worst case scenario of a snake or spider bite, the first aid process is simple.

“It’s really important to stay calm. Venom travels through the lymphatic system so if you stay still, the less the venoms going to circulate through your body. Apply your general first aid which will be applying a bandage across the white wound … then seek urgent medical assistance.”

Mr Rumsey says while we may not like to share our property with these creatures, they are a part of the natural environment.

“We have to accept that we have to live with them or alongside them.”

Brown Snake