Caution! Snakes Coming Out

With the weather getting warmer as the spring season sets in, snakes will soon be coming out from hibernation hungry and in search of food.

The City wishes to caution pet owners to be on high alert and keep an eye on their pets as they may fall prey to snakes.

Residents should not panic when they spot a snake in their living spaces. Keep the snake within your vision at a distance of about 5 metres, and not try to kill or handle the snake. A snake should be given a right of way rather than having their way being blocked, and sight of where it ends up should not be lost while help is sought.

The Ekurhuleni region is prone to snakes due to the availability of the Blesbokspruit river system, Bullfrog Pan and all other Highveld grassland and many open spaces with good eco-systems that provide both food and shelter for snakes.

Beware of the puff adder and rinkhals, as they are extremely dangerous with the puff adder known to be very instinctive, slow in pace and quick to sense danger.

The rinkhals, or ring-necked cobra, is a fast moving multi-feeder that is good at faking death. It is easily identified by the two white stripes that are visible across its neck when it spreads its hood.

Not all snakes are poisonous, but should a snake bite, it is advisable to seek medical attention immediately.

Furthermore, residents are cautioned to avoid snakes in their spaces by keeping the yard clean, as an untidy yard creates a habitat for rodents which is the primary food for snakes. Use your municipal 240ℓ wheelie bins to dispose of your refuse as this may also be food for rodents which will attract snakes. Finally, when feeding your pets put out enough for the day, don’t have extra food on site to avoid feeding rodents.

In case of encountering a snake, call the City’s snake catchers listed below: