What Should I Do If I See a Snake?
First things first: stay calm, keep your distance — and keep your eyes on the snake.
The single most important thing you can do after spotting a snake is to maintain visual contact from a safe distance. Watching the snake helps us remove it quickly and safely when we arrive.
If a snake moves under a bin, garden edging, furniture, or stored items, position yourself where the snake can see you without approaching it. When a snake is aware of a much larger presence nearby, it will usually stay put rather than attempt to flee.
When we know exactly where the snake is, removal is often straightforward. If the snake disappears, the job becomes far more difficult and may involve searching sheds, gardens, roof lines, or every corner of the property.
What Not to Do
Do not try to catch or kill the snake.
This is how the overwhelming majority of snake bites occur.Do not attempt to move it with a broom, hose, shovel, or garden tool.
Even non-venomous snakes can cause serious injury if mishandled.Do not crowd the snake or block its movement.
Cornering a snake increases defensive behaviour.
What To Do Instead
Follow these simple steps:
1. Move people and pets away
Children and pets should be kept well clear of the area. Pets in particular tend to investigate snakes, which often ends badly.
2. Keep eyes on the snake from a safe distance
You don’t need to get close. Simply maintain visual contact so you can tell us exactly where it is when we arrive.
3. If the snake is inside, contain it if safe
If the snake is indoors, close internal doors where possible to limit its movement. Only do this if it can be done safely without approaching the snake.
4. Call 0418 633 474 immediately
Contact Urban Reptile Removal for advice and to have a licensed snake catcher dispatched.
We’ll talk you through exactly what to do while we’re on the way.
A Quick Reminder
Snakes are not aggressive by default. They don’t want to approach you and will almost always choose escape over confrontation if given the opportunity.
Your role is simple:
Keep your distance
Keep eyes on the snake
Let a professional handle the situation
Extra Care During the Holiday Season
As warmer weather and the holiday period approach, people spend more time outdoors — gardening, entertaining, using pools, and letting pets roam the yard. This is also when snake activity increases.
Staying alert, knowing what to do, and having a reliable number saved in your phone can make all the difference.
If you see a snake at any time — whether you’re preparing for visitors, relaxing in the backyard, or heading away on holidays — call 0418 633 474 and we’ll take care of it calmly and professionally.