Heavy rains and flooding in KwaZulu-Natal could bring increased snake activity

midsouthcoastrisingsunNov 14, 2019Read original

James Wittstock, Reptile Curator for Crocworld Conservation Centre. (Image credit: OJC)eThekwini Municipality has issued a warning about persistent rainfall over the next few days with heavy thundershowers and saturated ground conditions expected to bring flooding to various regions. These wet conditions are also likely to result in the emergence of certain ground-dwelling snake species seeking places of safety.

Southern Stiletto Snake showing the small inconspicious eyes. (Image credit: Nick Evans)

Puff Adder. (Image: Supplied by Martin Rodrigues)

Brown House Snake​. (Image: Supplied by Martin Rodrigues)

Herald Snake. (Image: Supplied by Martin Rodrigues)James Wittstock, Reptile Curator for

, explained that there are several snake species that live just below the ground, which are known to emerge after heavy rains: “With the rain comes the smaller fossorial species which are snakes that spend most of their time beneath the surface of the ground.

As the water levels rise, the oxygen levels diminish and these snakes are forced to leave their subterranean homes.

While most of these are harmless to humans, there are certain species that could be potentially dangerous.”

He explained that the most commonly found fossorial snakes in this area are the Bibrons Blind Snake – which is harmless – and Southern Stiletto snake (also known as the Bibrons Burrowing Asp or Side Stabbing Adder) which has a potent cytotoxic venom.

A bite from a Southern

is very painful and causes moderate-to-severe swelling in most cases. If left untreated, it could lead to the loss of a limb or digit as the venom breaks down the tissue cells surrounding the bite.

The Stilleto snake is a small species of snake reaching lengths of about 40 to 50 cm with a small, flat head.

To the untrained eye, they may appear to look harmless. They are dark in colour, usually black, and the underbelly is often cream in colour, sometimes extending up the sides of the snake.

When threatened they arch their neck with their head facing the ground and they will readily bite if they feel threatened.

“The heavy rains will also cause the more commonly seen terrestrial species to seek refuge – often in and around homes,” continued Wittstock. “This is generally because they are seeking warmth and food.

It is not uncommon for snakes to be found in the roofs of houses, where it is dry and they can hunt rats and geckos.”

He warned that if a snake is encountered, the best thing to do is keep an eye on the animal from a safe distance, while calling a professional to come and retrieve the snake. The animal can then be safely relocated to a suitable habitat.

Attempting to capture or kill the snake is both unnecessary and incredibly dangerous as it is when most bites occur.

Crocworld Conservation Centre offers a free service of identifying and removing snakes for the communities of Scottburgh, Umkomaas, Pennington and Park Rynie. For more information or assistance contact Crocworld Conservation Centre on 039 976 1103 or alternatively contact James Wittstock on 066 292 0880 or Martin Rodrigues on 078 484 1859.