Marsh Snake

Marsh Snake Information:

Marsh Snake (Hemiaspis signata) is a slender and mildly venomous snake species found in Australia, including the Sutherland Shire region.

Identification: They are slender and relatively small snakes, typically growing to a length of about 40 to 80 centimeters (16 to 32 inches). The coloration of Marsh Snakes coloration ranges from black-brown to yellowish-brown, featuring a dark belly. It has two white stripes on each side of the head, with one possibly being broken. One stripe runs along the top of the lip, while the other extends from the snout or eye backward along the head.

Habitat: Marsh Snakes are primarily found in wetland habitats, such as swamps, marshes, and the edges of slow-moving streams or rivers. They are highly adapted to aquatic environments and are excellent swimmers. Additionally, they can be found in nearby grasslands and open woodlands, but their preference for moist environments remains strong.

Behavior: These snakes are generally docile and not aggressive towards humans. When threatened, Marsh Snakes may display defensive behaviors, such as flattening their bodies to appear larger or hissing. However, they are more likely to try to escape when confronted, and bites are relatively rare.

Diet: Marsh Snakes are carnivorous and primarily feed on small vertebrates, such as frogs, tadpoles, small fish, and occasionally small lizards. They are adept at hunting in aquatic environments and may even swim to catch their prey.Venom: Marsh Snakes are venomous, but their venom is considered to be of low potency. While their bite can cause local pain, swelling, and discomfort, it is not generally life-threatening to humans. However, as with any snake bite, medical attention should be sought immediately to ensure proper treatment and avoid potential complications.

If you encounter an Marsh 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.

Marsh Snake #7

The Marsh Snake, also known as the Swamp Snake, holds the distinction of being the seventh most frequently encountered snake in the Sutherland Shire. This is largely due to the region's abundance of wetland habitats, such as swamps, marshes, and riverbanks, which provide the ideal environment for these semi-aquatic reptiles. The area's relatively mild climate and plentiful prey, including frogs and small fish, further contribute to the Marsh Snake's prevalence. Additionally, their adaptable nature and ability to thrive in both natural and suburban settings allow them to coexist with human populations, leading to more frequent sightings.

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.

Thank you! Please allow up to 2 days for a response.
If your enquiry is urgent, please call us on 0428 458 856.
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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!