Broad-headed Snake

Broad-headed Snake Information:

Broad-headed Snake (Hoplocephalus bungaroides) is a venomous snake species found in Australia, including the Sutherland Shire region.

Identification: It is a moderately sized snake, with adults ranging from 60 to 80 centimeters (2 to 2.6 feet) in length. As the name suggests, its distinctive feature is its broad head, which is quite distinct from its slender body. The coloration of the broad-headed snake varies, but it typically has a mix of browns, grays, and blacks, often with intricate patterns and bands along its body.

Habitat: Broad-headed snakes are endemic to eastern Australia and are found in a range of habitats, including forested areas, woodlands, coastal heaths, and rocky hillsides. They are predominantly terrestrial but can occasionally be found in low trees or shrubs. These snakes are adaptable and can thrive in various environments, from coastal regions to inland areas.

Behaviour: Broad-headed snakes are generally nocturnal, preferring to be active during the night. They are shy and reclusive creatures, often seeking refuge under logs, rocks, or leaf litter during the day. When threatened, they may flatten their bodies and raise their heads to appear more prominent, but they are not typically aggressive. Instead, they tend to rely on their cryptic coloration and stealth to avoid predators and potential threats.

Diet: Broad-headed snakes are carnivorous predators, primarily feeding on small vertebrates. Their diet consists mainly of lizards, particularly skinks, but they may also consume small mammals and occasionally other snakes. They are known for their powerful constriction abilities, using their bodies to subdue and immobilize their prey before consuming it.

Venom: The broad-headed snake possesses venom, which it uses to immobilize and begin the digestion of its prey. The venom is a complex cocktail of toxins that can be harmful to its prey and, in some cases, humans. However, this species is not considered highly dangerous to humans, and bites are relatively rare due to their reclusive nature.

If you encounter an Broad-headed Snake or any snake in the Sutherland Shire area and require assistance, you can contact Tyler Gibbons at Shire Snake Wranglers. Here are the provided contact details:

Name: Tyler Gibbons
Phone number: 0428 458 856
Company: Shire Snake Wranglers

Snake Wranglers like Tyler Gibbons have expertise in handling and safely relocating snakes, ensuring both human safety and the welfare of the snakes. It's important to exercise caution and not attempt to handle or provoke a snake if you encounter one, and instead rely on trained professionals for assistance.

Broad-headed Snake #13

The Broad-headed Snake (Hoplocephalus bungaroides) is the thirteenth most frequently encountered snake in the Sutherland Shire. This elusive, nocturnal species is found predominantly in rocky outcrops and heathlands, which are common in the region's diverse habitats. Despite its relative scarcity compared to other local snake species, the Broad-headed Snake's specific environmental preferences and the Shire's extensive bushland contribute to its notable presence. Conservation efforts and habitat preservation are crucial to maintaining its population, as urban development poses a significant threat to its natural habitat.

Make the Call

Call us immediately! And if possible, try to maintain a visual of the snake - from a safe distance.

Contain

Safely attempt to contain the snake to an area of the house or property by closing doors, blocking gaps etc.

Photograph

If possible, take a photo and/or record a video of the snake and text it to us (for identification purposes).

Do Not Touch!

Most importantly, do not attempt to touch or catch the snake yourself! Please leave this to the professionals.

Contact Us

For urgent removal/callout, please click on the button below:

Call 0428 458 856

Alternatively, if you have a general question, or even some feedback, feel free to complete & submit the below form.

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Common Questions

Are you licensed?

Yes, we are fully-licensed with the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS).
Licence #MWL000103684

Should we attempt to catch the snake?

Absolutely not! It is extremely important that you do not attempt to catch the snake yourself. Please leave this to the professionals, to avoid any risk of being bitten and/or seriously injured.

Is it safe for children & pets to be around?

No. Please keep small children and pets away from wherever you saw the snake in your home/property, until it has been safely captured.

What to do if someone has been bitten?

If you have been bitten by a venomous snake, it is crucial to take immediate action! Here are some recommendations:

1. Stay Calm: Panicking increases your heart rate, which can cause the venom to spread quicker.

2. Seek Medical Attention: Call emergency services or go to the nearest hospital as soon as possible. Do not attempt to drive yourself!

3. Keep Bite Area Immobilized: Immobilizing the bitten limb can slow down the spread of venom to other parts of the body.

4. Remove Constrictive Items: Snakebite swelling can progress rapidly, so remove any constrictive items, such as; rings, bracelets, or tight clothing near the bite site.

5. Do Not Apply a Tourniquet: Contrary to popular belief, applying a tourniquet, or restricting blood flow, is not recommended and can cause more harm than good.

6. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water! Avoid alcohol, caffeine, or other substances that can increase heart rate and blood flow.

7. Observe and Describe the Snake: If possible, try to remember the look of the snake that bit you. This information can help healthcare professionals determine the appropriate antivenom for treatment.

Do you charge a call-out fee?

Yes, we do. The amount varies and is dependent on the date and time. However, we guarantee we are the cheapest snake catchers in the Sutherland Shire!