Slithering into spring!

It's spring, which means the weather is getting warmer and local reptiles are waking up to bask it in. You'll likely spot a water dragon recharging on a flat rock or a blue-tongue lizard soaking up the sun on one of our trails.

 Reptiles also mean snakes, and after a long winter’s sleep, snakes are on the move again and ready for a meal. And although most of the snakes in our area are pretty timid and unlikely to inflict a wound, some are venomous so it’s important to be cautious.

The best way to keep snakes away from your home is to maintain your yard with short grass, remove rubbish, and be mindful of rats and mice - their favourite food.

When venturing out to tidy up your yard after winter, wear covered shoes, long-sleeved shirt and pants and gloves. Stamp the ground before heading too far, this will alert any nearby reptiles of your presence and don’t reach into dark crevices where you can’t see.

Snakes live all over Australia from beaches to bushland and although some Aussies go their whole life without ever spotting one, it’s important to know what to do if you see one:

stand still, and step away slowlyalways assume it's venomousdon't approach it or try to catch it yourself, even baby snakes are quick and can bite you. Your reflexes are not as quick as a snakeif you need the snake removed or relocated, call WIRES 1300 094 737 or Sydney Wildlife 9413 4300try to keep an eye on the snake so it can be found easily when wildlife service's comeeducate your children to also know what to do and to report seeing a snake to you immediately.

Please remember, snakes are protected native animals and they play an important role in our ecosystem. It’s important we view them with caution and kindness and remember you’re not allowed to harm them.

If you have any questions about snakes, please do not hesitate to contact one of our biodiversity officers on 1300 434 434.