Hidden threat lurks in backyards, shocking Aussie gardeners—avoid deadly mistake
By
Gian T
- Replies 11
As Aussies embrace the sunshine and the joys of gardening, danger may be hidden among the greenery.
A recent incident has sparked a warning for gardeners, reminding them to stay alert to what might be lurking beneath the surface.
Even when it seems safe, risks can still be present in the most unexpected places.
Imagine the shock of finding a snake in your home, tracking it to a cupboard, and accidentally severing it in half while trying to prevent it from escaping.
This was the unfortunate scenario that unfolded in Stanhope Gardens last week.
The homeowners, in a panic, slammed their screen door on the snake, injuring it. Williams, who was called to the scene, highlighted a chilling fact: a snake can still bite and inject venom even when cut in half.
This is because cold-blooded reptiles have a slower metabolism than mammals.
As a result, they can survive and remain reactive for hours after sustaining life-threatening injuries.
Sadly, many injured reptiles, including turtles, lizards, and snakes, can be found struggling for life long after an accident.
Williams receives most calls related to garden accidents involving lawnmowers or whipper snippers.
These everyday gardening tools can inadvertently become instruments of harm to the unsuspecting creatures hiding in the grass.
It's crucial to remember that all native reptiles in Australia are protected by law, and it's illegal to harm them.
Despite this, snake bites, although rare, do occur, and the majority of victims are men who attempt to handle or kill these reptiles.
For those who find themselves in the unfortunate position of having injured a snake, Williams advises against trying to move it.
An injured venomous snake is not only traumatised but also extremely dangerous. Instead, the best course of action is to seek professional help.
If a vet can treat the snake, that's the first step. If not, as heartbreaking as it may be, euthanasia may be the most humane option.
As we continue to enjoy gardening, let's be mindful of the wildlife sharing our outdoor spaces.
Take care when mowing the grass or trimming edges, and always keep an eye out for our slithery friends who may be hiding in the underbrush.
In other news, Queensland recorded a sharp rise in snake bites, with seven people hospitalised over one weekend.
In the week leading up to 10 February, 24 incidents were already reported. You can read more about it here.
Credit: YouTube
Have you ever encountered a snake in your garden? How did you handle the situation? Share your stories and tips in the comments below, and let's keep each other informed and protected from the hidden dangers in our backyards.
A recent incident has sparked a warning for gardeners, reminding them to stay alert to what might be lurking beneath the surface.
Even when it seems safe, risks can still be present in the most unexpected places.
Imagine the shock of finding a snake in your home, tracking it to a cupboard, and accidentally severing it in half while trying to prevent it from escaping.
This was the unfortunate scenario that unfolded in Stanhope Gardens last week.
The homeowners, in a panic, slammed their screen door on the snake, injuring it. Williams, who was called to the scene, highlighted a chilling fact: a snake can still bite and inject venom even when cut in half.
This is because cold-blooded reptiles have a slower metabolism than mammals.
As a result, they can survive and remain reactive for hours after sustaining life-threatening injuries.
Sadly, many injured reptiles, including turtles, lizards, and snakes, can be found struggling for life long after an accident.
Williams receives most calls related to garden accidents involving lawnmowers or whipper snippers.
These everyday gardening tools can inadvertently become instruments of harm to the unsuspecting creatures hiding in the grass.
It's crucial to remember that all native reptiles in Australia are protected by law, and it's illegal to harm them.
Despite this, snake bites, although rare, do occur, and the majority of victims are men who attempt to handle or kill these reptiles.
For those who find themselves in the unfortunate position of having injured a snake, Williams advises against trying to move it.
An injured venomous snake is not only traumatised but also extremely dangerous. Instead, the best course of action is to seek professional help.
If a vet can treat the snake, that's the first step. If not, as heartbreaking as it may be, euthanasia may be the most humane option.
As we continue to enjoy gardening, let's be mindful of the wildlife sharing our outdoor spaces.
Take care when mowing the grass or trimming edges, and always keep an eye out for our slithery friends who may be hiding in the underbrush.
In other news, Queensland recorded a sharp rise in snake bites, with seven people hospitalised over one weekend.
In the week leading up to 10 February, 24 incidents were already reported. You can read more about it here.
Credit: YouTube
Key Takeaways
- Aussie gardeners are cautioned about the risk of injuring snakes while mowing or trimming grass, as these reptiles can still pose a danger even when cut in half.
- Reptile catcher Chris Williams emphasised that severed snakes can still bite and inject venom, potentially leading to serious illness.
- Most incidents involving severed snakes are due to accidents with lawnmowers or whipper snippers, highlighting the importance of vigilance while gardening to avoid harming wildlife.
- It is illegal to harm native reptiles in Australia, and injured snakes should receive veterinary care or be humanely euthanised rather than being moved or handled by untrained individuals.