Tiger Snake (Notechis scutatus) is a highly venomous snake species found in Australia, including the Sutherland Shire region.
Identification: It is named for its distinctive striped or banded appearance, which resembles the stripes of a tiger. The coloration of tiger snakes can vary significantly, although known for their stripes, they are sometimes completely patternless. Generally, they have a robust body, a broad head, and average lengths of around 1.2 to 1.5 meters (4 to 5 feet), although larger specimens have been recorded.
Habitat: Tiger snakes are found in various habitats across southern Australia. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in a range of environments, including coastal regions, wetlands, grasslands, forests, and even urban areas. They are commonly encountered near water sources, such as rivers, swamps, and lakes, as they are excellent swimmers and are known to hunt for food in aquatic environments.
Behaviour: Tiger snakes are generally solitary creatures, and while they may be active during the day, they are often more active at night during the warmer months. They are known to be relatively aggressive when provoked or threatened, and they will raise their heads, flatten their necks, and hiss as a warning display. However, like most snakes, they prefer to avoid confrontation and will usually retreat if given the opportunity.
Diet: Tiger snakes are carnivorous and have a varied diet. They primarily prey on small vertebrates, including frogs, fish, lizards, and birds. They are also known to consume small mammals, such as rodents. Their hunting strategy involves using venom to immobilize their prey before consuming it.
Venom: The venom of the tiger snake is highly toxic and potent. It primarily consists of neurotoxins and coagulants. When bitten, the venom can cause a range of symptoms, including paralysis, muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, and potentially even death if medical treatment is not sought promptly. The severity of the envenomation depends on factors such as the size of the snake, the amount of venom injected, and the location of the bite. Despite their venomous nature, tiger snakes play a crucial role in their ecosystems by helping to control populations of their prey species. It's essential to treat them with respect and caution when encountered in their natural habitats to avoid unnecessary conflicts and bites. If bitten, seeking immediate medical attention is critical to ensure the best chance of recovery.
If you encounter an Tiger 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.
The Eastern Tiger Snake is the tenth most found snake in the Sutherland Shire, largely due to the region's diverse and suitable habitats. This venomous species thrives in the area's bush land, wetlands, and suburban gardens, where it hunts for frogs, lizards, and small mammals. The combination of natural and human-altered landscapes in the Sutherland Shire provides ample hiding spots and food sources, making it an ideal environment for the Eastern Tiger Snake to flourish. Consequently, encounters with this snake are relatively common, especially during warmer months when they are more active.
Call us immediately! And if possible, try to maintain a visual of the snake - from a safe distance.
Safely attempt to contain the snake to an area of the house or property by closing doors, blocking gaps etc.
If possible, take a photo and/or record a video of the snake and text it to us (for identification purposes).
Most importantly, do not attempt to touch or catch the snake yourself! Please leave this to the professionals.
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Alternatively, if you have a general question, or even some feedback, feel free to complete & submit the below form.
Yes, we are fully-licensed with the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS).
Licence #MWL000103684
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.
No. Please keep small children and pets away from wherever you saw the snake in your home/property, until it has been safely captured.
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.
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!