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Snakes

Snakes
Photo of two snakes in foliage
There are 140 species of land-based snakes in Australia. Find out what to do if you find one around your home. There are 140 species of land-based snakes in Australia. Find out what to do if you find one around your home.  
Red Bellied Black Snake

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There are 140 species of land-based snakes in Australia, 100 of which are venomous while 12 can inflict a potentially life-threatening bite. Snakes are not usually aggressive and will only attack if injured or provoked. In fact, most bites occur when people try to catch or kill a snake, or they are attacked by pets such as dogs or cats. Snakes naturally occur in our City and can be in our parks and around waterways. They are particularly visible from October-March when they are basking in the sun or on warm surfaces. Snakes are a part of our healthy ecosystem, but it is important to know what to do if you see one. 

What to do if you see a snake

  • Remain calm and walk away 
  • Do not threaten, disturb, annoy or throw anything at the snake 
  • Secure all pets or keep them on a lead 
  • Keep children away from the snake 
If you want to learn more, Council will be hosting a series of snake awareness seminars. To register your interest or to find out more, email cleanandgreen@cbcity.nsw.gov.au

What to do if someone is bitten by a snake

  • All snake bites must be treated as potentially life-threatening, even if the bite marks appear superficial. If you are bitten by a snake, call triple zero (000) for an ambulance
  • Get the person away from the snake
  • Ensure they remain as still as possible, are sitting or lying down and help them to stay calm
  • Apply pressure or a pressure immobilisation bandage 
  • Don’t wash the bite area – venom left on the skin can help identify the snake

For more information on what to do for a snake bite, please visit the health direct website. 

Contact ​

Snakes are best left alone, but if you find a snake in your home or backyard and would like it removed, please contact a licenced snake catcher.
If you see a snake you’re concerned about in a Council location, please contact us and we’ll do out best to help.  

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