The Australian Reptile Park has issued an urgent alert urging the public to remain vigilant for venomous snakes due to unseasonably high temperatures accelerating their activity.
Spring traditionally begins on September 1, but this year, warm weather along Australia’s east coast has led to earlier-than-expected snake sightings. The increased temperatures have prompted snakes to emerge from their shelters sooner, raising the risk for families.
Reports indicate a notable rise in snake-related callouts, an anomaly for this time of year. Typically, snakes remain in brumation until September, but the current conditions are disrupting this cycle.
Park Operations Manager Billy Collett emphasized that snakes generally do not pose a threat unless provoked. “Most snake bites occur when individuals attempt to handle or kill the snake. Avoiding these actions significantly reduces the risk of a bite,” Collett explained. He stressed the importance of being prepared with knowledge of first aid for snake bites.
In the event of a snake bite, first aid should include keeping the victim calm and still, removing all jewelry, applying a pressure-immobilisation bandage to the bite site, and bandaging the entire limb. Immediate medical attention is crucial, either by calling an ambulance or going directly to the hospital.
Collett noted, “Applying the pressure-immobilisation bandage helps contain the venom and slows its spread, giving the victim more time to receive medical care.”
The Australian Reptile Park places a strong emphasis on snake safety education and has saved approximately 300 lives annually through its antivenom program. However, basic awareness and safety measures can also be critical in preventing fatalities.
To minimize the risk of snake encounters in residential areas, the Park advises homeowners to keep grass trimmed and avoid creating potential snake habitats with piles of firewood or other debris.
Venomous snake bites can have severe consequences, including blood cell destruction, clotting, or excessive bleeding. Without prompt and effective treatment, a bite can be fatal within 30 minutes, depending on the venom’s potency and the snake species.
The Australian Reptile Park remains the sole global facility dedicated to milking Australian terrestrial land snakes for antivenom production. With around 2,000 snake bites reported annually in Australia, the training of new personnel for the venom program is essential for saving lives, with CSL Seqirus playing a critical role in converting venom into lifesaving antivenom.