A venomous tiger snake lurking beneath a baby’s bouncer on Christmas night in an Australian home sent shivers down spines. The unexpected discovery, captured on video and shared by a Melbourne-based snake catching service, The Snake Hunter, highlighted the hidden dangers these reptiles can pose.
The chilling video shows the snake catcher carefully lifting the bouncer to reveal the tiger snake coiled underneath, its tongue flicking. The narrator emphasizes the danger, stating, “Even though it’s small, it’s still incredibly deadly because they hide in the most unique places inside the home.” The incident underscores the importance of vigilance, especially in areas known for venomous snake activity. Tiger snakes, notorious for their potent venom, are considered one of Australia’s most dangerous snake species.
Tiger Snakes: A Hidden Threat in Australian Homes
While tiger snakes are not inherently aggressive, they will strike if they feel threatened. Their venom is highly toxic and can be fatal to humans, making encounters like this particularly alarming. The University of Melbourne’s School of Biomedical Sciences classifies the tiger snake as one of Australia’s “most notorious” venomous species. Although their numbers have decreased in recent years due to habitat loss and human encroachment, they remain a significant threat.
The incident occurred around 11:30 p.m. on Christmas night, according to Yahoo News Australia. Reptile catcher Mark Pelley, responding to the emergency call, discovered the snake hidden beneath the baby bouncer. He expressed concern that the snake could have been in the house for a longer period, potentially interacting with the child’s toys unnoticed. “The first thing I lifted was the child’s baby bouncer, and I found the tiger snake underneath it,” Pelley told Yahoo News Australia. “The snake could have been there for a lot longer, and it could have been crawling around the baby’s toys, but they just didn’t notice it. It was a real Christmas Day surprise.”
Recent Encounters Highlight Ongoing Danger
This wasn’t an isolated incident. Just a week prior, another Australian family in Tasmania found a tiger snake curled up in a wardrobe, further emphasizing the need for caution. Fortunately, in both cases, snake catchers were able to safely remove the snakes without any injuries. These close calls serve as reminders of the potential dangers lurking in seemingly safe spaces.
The frequency of these encounters raises questions about the changing dynamics between humans and wildlife in Australia. As human populations expand and encroach upon natural habitats, encounters with venomous snakes like the tiger snake are likely to continue.
Eastern Brown Snakes: A Growing Concern
While tiger snakes remain a serious threat, the eastern brown snake has now overtaken them as the species responsible for the most snakebites in Australia. This shift highlights the evolving landscape of snake-related incidents and the importance of staying informed about the specific risks in different regions.
The University of Melbourne’s report indicates that although tiger snake populations have declined, the eastern brown snake has become more prevalent in some areas. This change may be attributed to the eastern brown snake’s adaptability to modified environments, making them more likely to encounter humans.
FAQs About Tiger Snakes and Snake Safety
Q: What should I do if I encounter a tiger snake?
A: Remain calm and slowly back away. Do not attempt to handle or kill the snake. Contact a professional snake catcher immediately.
Q: Are tiger snakes aggressive?
A: Tiger snakes are not typically aggressive but will defend themselves if they feel threatened. Give them space and avoid provoking them.
Q: What are the symptoms of a tiger snake bite?
A: Symptoms can include localized pain, swelling, nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, and paralysis. Seek immediate medical attention if bitten.
Q: How can I prevent snake encounters around my home?
A: Keep your yard tidy, remove potential hiding places like piles of wood or debris, and seal any gaps or cracks in your home’s foundation.
Q: What is the best way to remove a snake from my property?
A: Never attempt to remove a snake yourself. Always contact a licensed and experienced snake catcher. They have the necessary equipment and expertise to safely handle and relocate snakes.
