Reptile relocation experts were astonished to find 102 venomous red-bellied black snakes in a mulch pile in Sydney, where one snake had previously bitten a dog. The snakes are under quarantine, set for release in a national park once temperatures drop.
Record Snake Rescue: 102 Venomous Red-Bellied Black Snakes Found in Sydney Yard
Record Snake Rescue: 102 Venomous Red-Bellied Black Snakes Found in Sydney Yard
A stunning discovery in Sydney as reptile handlers rescue over 100 venomous snakes, including adult and baby red-bellied black snakes, from a residential backyard.
In an extraordinary event that underscores the unique wildlife environment in Australia, reptile relocation experts in Sydney were amazed to rescue a total of 102 venomous snakes from a backyard mulch pile. The rescue included five adult snakes and a staggering 97 baby red-bellied black snakes, a species notorious for its venom, yet remarkably has not caused any fatalities among humans.
Cory Kerewaro, the head of the reptile handling team, received a call requesting assistance after a snake bite incident involving a dog at the property. When his colleague arrived on-site, he was met with an overwhelming number of snakes. Initially entering the scene thinking it would be a routine rescue, he soon realized it was far more than expected. "Mate, I'm going to be here a while. It's a pretty big pile... I'm already over 15 snakes!" was a call that left Kerewaro incredulous.
The incident, which unfolded on Boxing Day, revealed a nesting behavior among female red-bellied black snakes; they tend to gather in small groups to protect their young against potential threats. The species is one of the most commonly encountered venomous snakes across Australia and is known for its somewhat shy demeanor. Although bites can occur, they are infrequent and generally result in only mild reactions such as swelling, nausea, and diarrhea.
Following their rescue, all 102 snakes are currently under quarantine. According to regulations, the reptile catchers are obliged to release them in areas close to where they were discovered. However, due to the exceptional circumstances surrounding this rescue, authorities have granted permission to relocate them to a national park, minimizing their chances of further human interactions.
After the incident, the dog involved was reportedly unharmed, allowing for a sense of relief amidst the startling encounter with nature in the heart of Sydney.
