Melbourne might be in the grip of Tiger mania, but there’s a different type of tiger people are being warned to be wary of.
Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong councils have warned people to be on the look out for snakes.
“Stewy the Snake Catcher” said he had this season received more than 20 calls for snake removal in Hobsons Bay, mainly for tiger snakes and less commonly the eastern brown.
“This is the time of year that they wake up from their slumber and get moving around looking for food and, being breeding season, they are looking to mate,” he said.
“As we build more estates, we’re pushing them further in and further out; as the houses build up, the snakes have got to go somewhere and end up living amongst us.”
Hobsons Bay council director Sanjay Manivasagasivam advised people to keep their distance if they saw a snake.
“We recommend dog walkers keep their dogs on a lead in natural areas around Hobsons Bay,” he said.
“To discourage snakes from entering your property, it’s paramount to do a few simple things – cut grass regularly, keep the ground clear of debris, and restrict availability to water sources and pet food.”
Maribyrnong mayor Catherine Cumming said there had been a few sightings, particularly around waterways such as Maribyrnong River.
“We ask that residents be cautious of snakes during the warmer months, particularly when they are in parkland and near waterways,” she said.
Snakes are protected under law, making it illegal to harm or personally catch them.
