See how Australians are overlooking a deadly threat in the heat and find out how to avoid it!
- Replies 10
As the Australian summer heat intensifies, so does the risk of encountering one of the country's most dangerous creatures.
A recent social media post serves as a chilling reminder of the hidden dangers that lurk in the Australian bush, particularly for those who enjoy outdoor activities like bushwalking.
The post, shared on social media, features a seemingly innocuous photo of a bushland scene.
At first glance, it appears to be nothing more than a patch of dry leaves and twigs scattered on the ground amidst shrubs.
However, a closer inspection reveals a deadly Copperhead snake camouflaged perfectly among the leaves.
The man who took the photo was hiking through the shrubs when he spotted the snake.
He quickly snapped a picture and shared it online to alert others, captioning it, 'This is why you have to watch every step in the woods.'
The post has since been shared over 300 times, sparking dozens of responses from people who were unable to spot the snake initially.
'I don't see a dang thing except leaves and twigs! I zoomed in and scanned it too!' one person commented.
Another wrote: 'I'd be dead. I don't see anything.'
'Okay where exactly is it? ‘Cause I've been looking for the last few minutes, and I cannot find it,' a third said.
'Wow…That blends in really well,' someone wrote.
Another said: 'In plain sight.'
The Copperhead snake, native to Australia, is highly venomous and can be found in the relatively cool and cold environments of southeastern Australia, including Kangaroo Island, Tasmania, and the Bass Strait Islands.
A bite from a copperhead snake can be potentially fatal without immediate medical assistance, according to the Australian Museum.
'Copperheads are primarily ground-dwelling; however, they will climb occasionally. There are three different types of copperheads—Pygmy Copperhead, Highland Copperhead and Lowland Copperhead,' the Australian Museum website reads.
Given the potential danger, it's essential to take precautions when bushwalking in Australia.
Here are some safety tips:
- Always wear sturdy shoes and long pants. Most snake bites occur on the lower legs or hands.
- Stick to well-used trails where possible. Snakes tend to avoid high-traffic areas.
- Avoid tall grass and undergrowth where snakes may be hiding.
- Carry a snake bite kit and know how to use it.
- If you see a snake, keep calm and move away slowly. Most snakes will only attack if they feel threatened.
Once bitten, it’s important to stay calm. On occasion, snakes are known to give ‘dry’ bites, which do not contain venom.
In cases of bites with venom, first ensure that the person bitten is out of harm’s way and is no longer at risk of more bites.
Keep the victim under observation and watch out for symptoms like difficulty breathing and dizziness. When possible, apply a pressure bandage around the affected area.
Most importantly, call emergency services at 000 for urgent care.
Remember, the Australian bush is a snake's natural habitat. Respect their space, and always be aware of your surroundings.
It's a timely warning for all Australians to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings, particularly during the sweltering summer months.
Have you ever encountered a snake while bushwalking? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.
A recent social media post serves as a chilling reminder of the hidden dangers that lurk in the Australian bush, particularly for those who enjoy outdoor activities like bushwalking.
The post, shared on social media, features a seemingly innocuous photo of a bushland scene.
At first glance, it appears to be nothing more than a patch of dry leaves and twigs scattered on the ground amidst shrubs.
Hidden somewhere in the bushes is a dangerous Copperhead snake. Image: Facebook
However, a closer inspection reveals a deadly Copperhead snake camouflaged perfectly among the leaves.
The man who took the photo was hiking through the shrubs when he spotted the snake.
He quickly snapped a picture and shared it online to alert others, captioning it, 'This is why you have to watch every step in the woods.'
The post has since been shared over 300 times, sparking dozens of responses from people who were unable to spot the snake initially.
'I don't see a dang thing except leaves and twigs! I zoomed in and scanned it too!' one person commented.
Another wrote: 'I'd be dead. I don't see anything.'
'Okay where exactly is it? ‘Cause I've been looking for the last few minutes, and I cannot find it,' a third said.
'Wow…That blends in really well,' someone wrote.
Another said: 'In plain sight.'
The Copperhead snake, native to Australia, is highly venomous and can be found in the relatively cool and cold environments of southeastern Australia, including Kangaroo Island, Tasmania, and the Bass Strait Islands.
A bite from a copperhead snake can be potentially fatal without immediate medical assistance, according to the Australian Museum.
'Copperheads are primarily ground-dwelling; however, they will climb occasionally. There are three different types of copperheads—Pygmy Copperhead, Highland Copperhead and Lowland Copperhead,' the Australian Museum website reads.
Given the potential danger, it's essential to take precautions when bushwalking in Australia.
Here are some safety tips:
- Always wear sturdy shoes and long pants. Most snake bites occur on the lower legs or hands.
- Stick to well-used trails where possible. Snakes tend to avoid high-traffic areas.
- Avoid tall grass and undergrowth where snakes may be hiding.
- Carry a snake bite kit and know how to use it.
- If you see a snake, keep calm and move away slowly. Most snakes will only attack if they feel threatened.
Once bitten, it’s important to stay calm. On occasion, snakes are known to give ‘dry’ bites, which do not contain venom.
In cases of bites with venom, first ensure that the person bitten is out of harm’s way and is no longer at risk of more bites.
Keep the victim under observation and watch out for symptoms like difficulty breathing and dizziness. When possible, apply a pressure bandage around the affected area.
Most importantly, call emergency services at 000 for urgent care.
Remember, the Australian bush is a snake's natural habitat. Respect their space, and always be aware of your surroundings.
It's a timely warning for all Australians to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings, particularly during the sweltering summer months.
Have you ever encountered a snake while bushwalking? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.
.png){kind=icon}
thought they were sticks.looked at each other crap where’s mum and dad 
