The Shire of Manjimup is urging residents to be vigilant and on the lookout for snakes when enjoying the outdoors as the warmer weather approaches. Snakes are out and about and the Shire Rangers are receiving increasing calls in regards to snakes within the residential areas of our townsites.
Shire President Paul Omodei cautioned "Snakes will normally try to avoid humans, however, we still need to be aware and take some precautions such as wearing long pants and enclosed shoes if possible while walking near bush, as well as keeping dogs under control if walking with them."
Residents should to be aware that keeping backyards clear of long grass, household rubbish and unused building materials as well as not having pet food laying around outside will reduce the risk of snakes around the home.
Outdoor aviaries and chicken pens often attract snakes and keeping them and their surrounding area free from discarded bird/chicken feed will help deter the snakes favourite prey items such as mice and rats. This will help reduce the risk of snakes entering your property.
Katrina Church and Rebecca Wallace of Manjimup St Johns Ambulance, will be visiting East Manjimup Primary School this month to provide them with a free snake bite treatment pack as well as to educate the staff and children on first aid for snake bite.
If you would like more information on first aid, please contact the St John Ambulance, Manjimup Sub Centre on 9771 1374.
For snake capture and relocation please contact Brendon on 9771 6102 or 0427 273 636 (outside business hours) or Brian on 0456 226 115. Shire Rangers can also capture and relocate snakes during normal working hours if they are available or you can also contact the 24-hour Wildcare Helpline on 9474 9055 for details of licensed operators who can safely remove and relocate snakes within your area.