In a startling finding, reptile handlers in Sydney rescued 102 venomous red-bellied black snakes, including five adults and 97 babies, from a mulch pile in a residential yard. The rescue was triggered after one snake reportedly bit a dog.
Massive Rescue Operation: 102 Venomous Snakes Discovered in Sydney Backyard
Massive Rescue Operation: 102 Venomous Snakes Discovered in Sydney Backyard
In an unusual wildlife incident, over 100 venomous snakes were found residing in a suburban backyard in Sydney, sparking a rescue effort by reptile handlers.
The snake-catching team, led by Cory Kerewaro from Reptile Relocation Sydney, was called to handle a “bunch” of snakes. Upon arrival, staff were taken aback by the quantity found – initially uncovering 40 snakes, with four pregnant females giving birth in the removal bag.
The red-bellied black snake, although venomous, has not been responsible for human fatalities and is considered one of Australia’s most common snake species. The captured snakes, now under quarantine, will be relocated to a national park once temperatures drop.
Kerewaro, reminiscing about the surprise on the scene, mentioned a call from his colleague Dylan Cooper, "Mate, I'm going to be here a while. It's a pretty big pile... I'm already over 15 snakes!" Thankfully, the dog that was bitten is reported to be “alive and well.”
This particular snake species is known for their sociable birthing habits, often gathering in groups to protect against predators. The Australian Museum notes that red-bellied black snakes are unique for giving live birth within their genus. Despite their reputation, encounters with humans are rare, and bites, while possible, commonly result in swelling, nausea, and diarrhea.
According to Australian law, snake catchers must release the reptiles near their original habitats. However, due to the large number discovered, authorities granted permission for the snakes to be released in a less populated national park to reduce human interactions.
The red-bellied black snake, although venomous, has not been responsible for human fatalities and is considered one of Australia’s most common snake species. The captured snakes, now under quarantine, will be relocated to a national park once temperatures drop.
Kerewaro, reminiscing about the surprise on the scene, mentioned a call from his colleague Dylan Cooper, "Mate, I'm going to be here a while. It's a pretty big pile... I'm already over 15 snakes!" Thankfully, the dog that was bitten is reported to be “alive and well.”
This particular snake species is known for their sociable birthing habits, often gathering in groups to protect against predators. The Australian Museum notes that red-bellied black snakes are unique for giving live birth within their genus. Despite their reputation, encounters with humans are rare, and bites, while possible, commonly result in swelling, nausea, and diarrhea.
According to Australian law, snake catchers must release the reptiles near their original habitats. However, due to the large number discovered, authorities granted permission for the snakes to be released in a less populated national park to reduce human interactions.
