In a startling event that left Sydney residents in disbelief, over 100 venomous snakes were discovered in the backyard of a home, prompting emergency reptile rescue operations. Reptile Relocation Sydney was called to the scene after a dog was reported bitten by one of the snakes. Upon assessment, handler Cory Kerewaro was shocked to find a total of 102 snakes, comprising five adult red-bellied black snakes and an astonishing 97 hatchlings.
The adult snakes are known to be one of Australia's most common venomous species but have a seemingly harmless reputation as they have not been responsible for any recorded human fatalities. The handlers noted that red-bellied black snakes exhibit a curious behavior where females often congregate in small groups prior to delivering their young, a protective measure against predators.
Kerewaro recounted how a colleague, Dylan Cooper, had informed him about the unusual situation shortly after arriving at the property. "Mate, I'm going to be here a while. It's a pretty big pile... I'm already over 15 snakes!" he had reported, an understatement considering the record haul of 102.
Fortunately, the dog that was bitten is reportedly "alive and well," following the incident, which occurred on Boxing Day. The retrieved snakes are currently under quarantine but will be relocated to a national park to ensure they are far removed from human interaction once temperatures decrease.
While bites from red-bellied black snakes are uncommon, they can lead to serious symptoms, including swelling and nausea. As required by law, the snake catchers are obligated to release the snakes close to their original habitat, but this exceptional circumstance has granted them special permission to ensure the reptiles' safety in a more secluded area.
