The Department for Environment and Water (DEW) is reminding residents that spring is almost here and with the change of seasons snakes slither out from their winter sleep.
Principal Ecologist at DEW, Karl Hillyard said campers, hikers and mountain bikers in particular should be on the lookout for snakes.
“The increase in sunshine brings snakes out of their hibernation-like state, looking for food and mates,” Dr Hillyard said.
“Snakes can be found all over South Australia, including in metropolitan Adelaide, with eastern brown snakes (pictured) found everywhere, but each region has its local specialty.”
He said the Adelaide Hills had the red-bellied black snake, the River Murray, Kangaroo Island and south east had the tiger snake, while Eyre and Yorke Peninsulas, especially near the coast, were known places for death adders.
“Just because you’ve never seen a snake on your property doesn’t mean they aren’t there, so you should always be careful about putting your hands or feet into spots you can’t see,” Dr Hillyard said.
You can avoid snakes on your property by keeping your yard clear of long grass and removing any rubbish that may offer snakes a good spot to hide.”
Dr Hillyard said snakes were generally shy and would not attack unless provoked “so if you spot one it’s best to leave them be”.
“Snakes are protected native animals, and they have an important part to play in the ecosystem, especially in helping to control rats and mice,” he said.
