Imagine returning home from a relaxing holiday only to be greeted by one of the most dangerous creatures in Australia lurking in your living room. This is precisely the harrowing experience that Folco Faber, a Kiwi man, had after coming back to his Adelaide home from a trip to New Zealand. The 'shock of his life' was waiting for him in the form of an eastern brown snake, the second most venomous snake in the world, casually positioned where he least expected it.

The eastern brown snake is not a sight you'd want to see in your home, especially not under circumstances where you're unsuspectingly stepping on it. Mr Faber, who was blissfully unaware of the deadly intruder, was focused on his cat Lily, whom he picked up for a cuddle. Security camera footage captured the chilling moment when his left foot made contact with the snake's head. Fortunately, instead of striking, the snake darted away, slithering under the coffee table as Mr Faber continued to move around the room.


It wasn't until Mr Faber glanced down that he realised the grave danger he had narrowly avoided. The shock made him jump, and he quickly placed Lily down. He recounted the event as unsettling and promptly called a professional snake catcher to safely remove the unwanted guest from his home. The snake catcher speculated that the snake's subdued reaction might have been due to an earlier encounter with Lily, who was fortunate to have survived a potential bite from such a lethal creature.


Eastern brown snakes are a common sight during the Australian summer, and while they are dangerous, they typically avoid human interaction. However, if you do come across one, the best course of action is to maintain a safe distance. Royal Life Saving WA advises against attempting to capture or kill the snake, as this can provoke a defensive and aggressive response, increasing the risk of a bite. Most snake bites occur under these circumstances.

If you find a snake on your property, it's crucial to contact a licensed snake catcher rather than dealing with it yourself. And in the unfortunate event of a snake bite, it's imperative to call triple-0 immediately for emergency assistance.

Members of our Seniors Discount Club, while encounters like Mr Faber's are rare, it's essential to stay vigilant, especially after returning from a holiday when your home has been left unattended. Ensure that you do a thorough check of your premises, particularly during snake season. Keep your gardens well-maintained to reduce hiding spots for snakes, and consider installing snake-proof fencing if you live in an area with a high snake population.
We'd love to hear from you in the comments below. Have you ever had a close encounter with a snake or other wildlife in your home? How did you handle the situation? Sharing your experiences can help others be prepared and stay safe.