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As the temperatures drop and colder weather sets in, it’s not uncommon to witness an increase in snake sightings in nearby areas. There have been recent sightings of a red-lipped herald, a corn snake (which was either abandoned or escaped from captivity as these are not indigenous to the area), brown house snake, and a rinkhals and cobra (fortunately a bit further away from us in Chartwell). These cold-blooded reptiles, seeking warmth and shelter, often venture into residential zones in search of suitable habitats. Rather than succumbing to fear or resorting to harm, it is important to understand the significance of coexisting with these fascinating creatures. In the event of a snake encounter, it is crucial to know how to react responsibly and seek the assistance of trained professionals for safe removal and release.

What to Do If You Encounter a Snake: If you come across a snake, it’s essential to remain calm and take appropriate action to ensure both your safety and the well-being of the snake.

  1. Maintain a safe distance: Keep a reasonable distance from the snake to avoid startling or provoking it. Remember that snakes are generally more afraid of humans than we are of them.
  2. Do not attempt to handle the snake: Unless you are a trained professional, it is best to refrain from any attempt to handle or capture the snake yourself. Snakes can be unpredictable, and mishandling them may lead to bites or other injuries.
  3. Contact a certified professional: Notify the relevant authorities or contact an ASI trained and certified individual in your area who specializes in the safe capture and release of snakes. These experts possess the knowledge and skills required to handle the situation safely and efficiently.

It is crucial to recognize the ecological significance of snakes and the detrimental consequences that can arise from killing them. Snakes play a vital role in balancing ecosystems by controlling rodent populations. They are natural predators of rats, mice, and other small animals that can become pests when their numbers are unchecked. Snakes contribute to the overall biodiversity of our planet. They are part of a delicate web of interactions in nature, and their removal can disrupt the balance, potentially leading to negative consequences for other species.

Fear and misinformation often drive people to harm or kill snakes unnecessarily. However, with proper understanding and education, we can dispel myths and foster coexistence with these important creatures.

We have our very own ASI trained and certified snake handler in the area, Leo Ming. Should you need his assistance if you have a snake in your home, please contact him:

Leo Ming
leo@mingsmartialarts.co.za
083 378 0468