Northam man Ray Adams has been removing snakes from houses, schools and businesses since 2002.
He said snakes usually get a bad rap when they are actually an important part of the ecosystem.
“If we didn’t have snakes, mice would flood your house,” Mr Adams said.
“They do add value in our community.”
He said each snake eats on average about 120 mice per year.
Mr Adams said the two common snakes in the Avon Valley are called Dugites and brown snakes.
He had already caught and released 15 snakes this season.
If you have an old pipe you can put that in the corner and the snake will usually go inside to hide
- Ray Adams
Mr Adams said a problem that arose with snake catching and removal was when someone saw a snake and did not keep an eye on where it goes. “It would be handy because I will get there and we sometimes can’t find it,” he said.
“If you have an old pipe you can put that in the corner and the snake will usually go inside to hide.”
A long catcher is used to pick up the snake and hold the body so he can drop it in the bag.
Mr Adams said the tool is designed to not harm the reptile.
He said if residents are interested in learning how to release a snake by themselves, they can complete the Reptile Handling course at CY O'connor TAFE.
The Northam Visitor Centre also has information on snakes in the area.
Department of Parks and Wildlife website tips:
- Walk and/or cycle in cleared areas only, where you can see the ground.
- When bushwalking, wear long trousers and boots or other enclosed footwear that preferably cover the ankles.
- Around your home remove long grass and items lying on the ground such as corrugated iron, which may provide cover for snakes.
- Reduce mice numbers around the house.
- Learn the correct treatment for a snakebite.
If you require assistance with the removal of a snake in the Northam Shire, contact Ray Adams on 0429 910 321 or Kristafer Brown on 0400 945 214.
Carla Hildebrandt
Journalist at the Mandurah Mail
Journalist at the Mandurah Mail
