Slithering in the seashore: Wildlife expert warns tourists of snake sightings on beaches
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As the sun kisses the shores and the waves gently lap against the Australian coastline, beachgoers often look for the perfect spot to lay their towels and soak up the serene environment.
However, a recent sighting in Sydney reminded us that the beach is not just a playground for humans, but also a habitat for some of Australia's fearsome wildlife.
A video captured by a beachgoer in Kiama showed a pair of red-bellied black snakes entwined in a fierce battle.
This sighting caused quite a stir not only because of the dramatic encounter but also because it occurred outside the reptiles' active period.
'That is very unusual and a little bit rare to see this behaviour at this time of year,' Southern Highlands Snake Catchers' member Ray McGibbon said.
'It's not unheard of and has been witnessed before, but it is very interesting and unusual to get it on camera.'
The snakes, usually more active in the warmer months, were seen engaging in a mating ritual despite the chill in the air.
McGibbon pointed to the fluctuating weather patterns in NSW as a possible catalyst.
On warm winter days resembling the spring breeze, animals may think it's mating season.
In this case, two male snakes were vying for the attention of a potential mate, showcasing their strength and dominance to win her over.
Snakes do not hibernate; instead, they enter a state called brumation, a dormant period during which they refrain from feeding due to the lack of heat needed for digestion.
However, snakes may emerge from time to time to bask in some sun.
This behaviour can lead to unexpected encounters, mainly when people are out and about.
'Like any time of year, when you're walking in certain areas where you may have a snake encounter, just be alert,' McGibbon advised.
'You don't touch them, you don't interact with them, you leave them alone.'
Call licensed professionals to manage a slithery situation safely.
In a previous article, Sydney residents were startled by the sight of a red-bellied black snake in their central business district.
The snake had slid into an underground car park and had to be retrieved by snake catchers from a hole in the wall.
While feeling uneasy around venomous snakes is natural, McGibbon emphasised that education is vital for everyone's safety.
Understanding these creatures and knowing how to react if you encounter one can help mitigate fear.
As we enjoy the great outdoors, let's remember that we share it with a diverse array of wildlife, each with its seasonal patterns and behaviours.
Have you ever had a close encounter with wildlife on the beach? Share your stories with us in the comments below.
However, a recent sighting in Sydney reminded us that the beach is not just a playground for humans, but also a habitat for some of Australia's fearsome wildlife.
A video captured by a beachgoer in Kiama showed a pair of red-bellied black snakes entwined in a fierce battle.
This sighting caused quite a stir not only because of the dramatic encounter but also because it occurred outside the reptiles' active period.
'That is very unusual and a little bit rare to see this behaviour at this time of year,' Southern Highlands Snake Catchers' member Ray McGibbon said.
'It's not unheard of and has been witnessed before, but it is very interesting and unusual to get it on camera.'
Red-bellied black snakes often mate during spring, which made the beach sighting unusual for some wildlife enthusiasts and officers. Image Credit: Australian Museum/R&A Williams
The snakes, usually more active in the warmer months, were seen engaging in a mating ritual despite the chill in the air.
McGibbon pointed to the fluctuating weather patterns in NSW as a possible catalyst.
On warm winter days resembling the spring breeze, animals may think it's mating season.
In this case, two male snakes were vying for the attention of a potential mate, showcasing their strength and dominance to win her over.
Snakes do not hibernate; instead, they enter a state called brumation, a dormant period during which they refrain from feeding due to the lack of heat needed for digestion.
However, snakes may emerge from time to time to bask in some sun.
This behaviour can lead to unexpected encounters, mainly when people are out and about.
'Like any time of year, when you're walking in certain areas where you may have a snake encounter, just be alert,' McGibbon advised.
'You don't touch them, you don't interact with them, you leave them alone.'
Call licensed professionals to manage a slithery situation safely.
In a previous article, Sydney residents were startled by the sight of a red-bellied black snake in their central business district.
The snake had slid into an underground car park and had to be retrieved by snake catchers from a hole in the wall.
While feeling uneasy around venomous snakes is natural, McGibbon emphasised that education is vital for everyone's safety.
Understanding these creatures and knowing how to react if you encounter one can help mitigate fear.
As we enjoy the great outdoors, let's remember that we share it with a diverse array of wildlife, each with its seasonal patterns and behaviours.
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at them one day should have seen them get up and run.
