Summer in Sydney is known for warm weather, outdoor living, and lush gardens. Unfortunately, it is also the season when snake activity increases significantly. Rising temperatures draw snakes out of hiding to hunt, breed, and seek water sources, often bringing them closer to homes and gardens.
Understanding why snakes are more active in summer and knowing how to respond safely can make all the difference in keeping your property snake-free.
Why Snake Removal in Summer Is So Important
During summer, snakes are at their most active due to the warmer temperatures and abundance of prey. Many species in Sydney, such as the Eastern Brown Snake, Red-bellied Black Snake, and Common Tree Snake, thrive in these conditions.
Here’s why snake removal becomes critical in summer:
- Increased encounters: Snakes are frequently seen basking in sunny areas or moving through yards looking for food and shelter.
- Breeding season: Summer marks the height of snake breeding, meaning more snakes are on the move.
- Higher bite risk: Curious pets and humans are more likely to cross paths with snakes during this time.
- Safety concerns: Some Sydney snake species are venomous and can pose serious risks if not handled by professionals.
By understanding these seasonal behaviours, homeowners can take preventive steps and respond correctly when a snake appears.
Common Snakes Found in Sydney During Summer
Sydney is home to a range of snake species, and while most are shy, some can be dangerous if provoked. Recognising the most common types can help you assess risk and decide when professional snake removal is needed.
- Eastern Brown Snake: Highly venomous and often found in open areas or near gardens. Responsible for most snakebite incidents in Australia.
- Red-bellied Black Snake: Prefers moist habitats and is often seen near ponds, dams, or swimming pools.
- Diamond Python: Non-venomous and usually found in roof spaces or trees. Helps control rodents, but it can still alarm homeowners.
- Common Tree Snake: Harmless but fast-moving, often found near gardens and water sources.
If you’re unsure of the snake species, it’s safest not to approach or attempt to capture it. Contact a licensed snake catcher immediately for removal.
What Attracts Snakes to Sydney Homes in Summer
Snakes are not drawn to humans themselves, but to the conditions around our homes. Understanding what attracts them can help prevent unwanted visits.
Key attractants include:
- Food sources: Rodents, frogs, birds, and insects are common snake prey. A rodent problem often leads to snakes.
- Shelter: Overgrown gardens, piles of wood, compost, and gaps under sheds or patios make perfect hiding spots.
- Water sources: Leaking taps, ponds, or pet water bowls attract snakes seeking hydration during hot days.
- Warmth: Concrete driveways, garden rocks, and sunny lawns provide ideal basking areas for snakes.
By identifying and managing these attractants, homeowners can reduce the likelihood of snakes lingering around the property.
Safety Tips if You Encounter a Snake
Encountering a snake in your garden or home can be frightening, but staying calm is the key to safety. Snakes typically only attack if threatened.
Here’s what you should do:
- Stay calm and step back slowly. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises.
- Do not try to kill or capture the snake. This increases the risk of bites.
- Keep pets and children indoors. Close off the area to prevent disturbance.
- Observe from a safe distance. Note its colour, size, and location.
- Call a licensed snake catcher. They have the tools and experience to handle removal safely.
Never attempt DIY snake removal, even if the snake appears non-venomous. Many species look similar, and a wrong assumption can be dangerous.
How Professional Snake Removal Works
When a licensed snake catcher arrives, they follow a precise and safe process to ensure the snake is removed without harm to people or wildlife.
Typical steps include:
- Assessment: The catcher identifies the snake species and evaluates the risk level.
- Safe capture: Using professional tools such as hooks and tongs, the snake is carefully secured.
- Relocation: The snake is released back into suitable bushland away from residential areas.
- Inspection: The catcher may inspect your property for entry points, food sources, or shelters that may attract future snakes.
This humane and efficient process ensures both the safety of residents and the well-being of local wildlife.
Preventing Snake Encounters During Summer
While professional removal is effective, prevention remains the best long-term solution. By maintaining a clean, well-kept environment, you can make your home less appealing to snakes.
Practical prevention tips include:
- Keep lawns short and gardens tidy. Overgrown vegetation provides shelter for both snakes and their prey.
- Seal gaps and cracks. Check fences, sheds, and house foundations for openings.
- Store firewood and materials off the ground. Raised storage discourages nesting.
- Eliminate food sources. Manage rodents and cover compost bins securely.
- Secure pet enclosures. Ensure snakes cannot enter chicken coops or outdoor pet cages.
- Install snake-proof fencing. Mesh barriers can effectively block snake entry in high-risk areas.
Regular property maintenance, especially during summer, greatly reduces the likelihood of an encounter.
When to Call for Emergency Snake Removal
Some situations require urgent professional help. You should contact an emergency snake catcher if:
- The snake is inside your home or an enclosed area
- You have pets or children nearby
- The snake is trapped or injured
- You are unsure if the snake is venomous
Most professional snake catchers in Sydney offer 24/7 emergency response, especially during summer when snake sightings spike. Quick action ensures safety for everyone involved.
Snake Removal and Wildlife Protection
It’s important to remember that snakes are a protected species under Australian law. Killing or harming them is illegal without proper authorisation.
Licensed snake catchers follow the NSW Wildlife Protection Regulations, ensuring that snakes are captured humanely and relocated responsibly. This balance maintains local biodiversity while protecting residents from potential harm.
By choosing professional snake removal, you’re not only keeping your property safe but also helping preserve Sydney’s native ecosystem.
Myths About Snake Removal and Behaviour
Many homeowners believe common myths about snakes that can lead to unnecessary fear or risky behaviour. Understanding the truth helps you respond appropriately.
Common myths include:
- “All snakes are aggressive.”
False. Most snakes avoid humans and will only strike if cornered or provoked. - “Snakes chase people.”
Incorrect. They may appear to move toward you while trying to escape in the same direction. - “Non-venomous snakes are harmless.”
Even non-venomous snakes can bite defensively, so all should be handled by experts. - “You can deter snakes with certain smells or chemicals.”
There is no proven chemical repellent for snakes. Prevention through property maintenance is far more effective.
Dispelling these myths promotes safer coexistence and encourages responsible snake management practices.
What Homeowners Should Do After Snake Removal
Once a snake has been removed, take steps to ensure it doesn’t return or attract others.
Follow-up actions include:
- Requesting a snake proofing inspection to identify and fix potential entry points.
- Keeping outdoor areas well-lit and clutter-free.
- Educating family members on snake safety and awareness.
- Monitoring for signs of rodents or nesting areas.
Ongoing vigilance, especially in the warmer months, is key to maintaining a snake-free home.
Conclusion
Snake removal in summer is a vital safety measure for Sydney homeowners. With higher snake activity during the warmer months, being prepared and knowing who to call can prevent accidents and ensure peace of mind.
If you spot a snake or suspect one is nearby, do not attempt to handle it yourself. Contact a licensed professional snake catcher today at 0427775959 for safe, humane, and effective removal.
Keeping your property tidy, secure, and regularly inspected is the best way to protect your home and family during Sydney’s active snake season.