GEORGE NEWS - Spring and summer are the most common times for snake sightings in both residential and rural suburbs, sometimes even the sea shore. The five most common venomous snakes in our area are the Cape Cobra, Rinkhals, Boomslang, Puff Adder and Berg Adder.
COBRAS
Cobras are mainly ground snakes and live in a range of habitats, including desert, forest, fynbos, grassland, thicket and cultivated areas. These snakes sometimes get into homes close to grassy areas, in an attempt to escape the heat. They’ve even been spotted on the beach. They are very active during the day.
RINKHALS
Rinkhals look similar to cobras, but the colour is different. Like cobras, they will spread their hood when they feel threatened. If that threat doesn’t move, they might spray venom. These critters are also very good at playing dead, so do not approach.
PUFF ADDER
The puff adder is responsible for most snake bites, because they use camouflage so well and are therefore easily stepped on.
BERG ADDER
The berg adder is smaller than the puff adder and will hiss loudly when threatened. Their bites are rare and not often fatal, since a single dose of the venom is not powerful enough to kill an adult human.
BOOMSLANG
The boomslang is one of the most venomous snakes found in South Africa. The good news is that they are very shy and bites from these critters aren’t common.
Snake catchers put their lives at risk so you don’t have to. Contact Nick Kolberg on 083 262 5934 if you need a snake to be removed or if you simply want more information on the snake.
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