Frequently Asked Questions

Everything You Need to Know About Snake Relocation & Safety

At Snakefella Reptile Removals, we understand that encountering a snake can be an unsettling experience, and having questions is completely natural. This page is designed to provide you with the answers to the most common questions we receive. Whether you’re curious about how we operate, how to safely handle a snake encounter, or the importance of our work, we’re here to shed light on everything you need to know. Explore our FAQ below to better understand the vital role snakes play in our environment, how we ensure safety, and how we can assist you during snake encounters.

General Information

Understanding the Basics of Snakes and Their Role in Our Ecosystem

Q: Why are snakes important to the environment?

Snakes play a vital role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems. They help control populations of rodents and other small animals, which can become pests. Venomous snakes also contribute to medical research, as their venom is used to develop life-saving medicines.

Q: Are all snakes venomous?

No, quite a few of our snakes are non-venomous and pose no threat to humans. However, venomous species are also not aggressive by nature and will only bite in self-defence if they feel threatened.

Q: How can I tell if a snake is venomous?

Identifying venomous snakes can be tricky, and it’s best to leave this to trained professionals. Many harmless species mimic the appearance of venomous ones as a survival tactic. If you’re unsure, don’t take any risks—call us for advice or assistance.

Q: Do snakes attack humans?

Snakes do not seek out humans to attack. Most bites occur when people accidentally step on or handle a snake. By keeping a safe distance and giving snakes space to retreat, you can avoid any danger.

Snake Encounters and Safety

What to Do and How to Stay Safe During a Snake Sighting

Q: What should I do if I find a snake in my yard?

  • Stay calm and keep a safe distance.
  • Avoid sudden movements or trying to scare the snake away.
  • Ensure pets and children are kept indoors.
  • Call Snakefella Reptile Removals at 0461 398 407, and we’ll handle the situation.

Q: How do I discourage snakes from entering my property?

  • Keep your yard tidy and remove hiding spots like woodpiles, overgrown vegetation, and debris.
  • Store pet food securely to avoid attracting rodents, which are prey for snakes.
  • Seal any gaps or cracks in your home’s foundation, walls, or roof.
  • Use snake-proof fencing or contact us for snake-proofing advice.

Q: What do I do if I’ve been bitten by a snake?

  1. Call emergency services immediately (000 in Australia).
  2. Stay as calm as possible and try to remain still.
  3. Apply a pressure bandage over the bite area and immobilize the limb, if possible.
  4. Do not wash the bite area or attempt to suck out the venom—this can make it harder for medical staff to identify the snake.

Q: Should I kill a snake on my property?

No. Killing snakes is unnecessary, dangerous, and illegal in QLD under the Nature Conservation Act. Instead, call a licensed snake catcher to safely relocate the animal. Snakes are protected wildlife and are important for the ecosystem.

Educational Insights About Snakes

Learning More About Local Snake Species and Their Behaviour

Q: Why do snakes come into houses?

Snakes usually enter homes in search of food (such as rodents) or shelter. They may also enter accidentally while exploring. Keeping your home secure and rodent-free can help minimise encounters.

Q: What’s the difference between a python and a venomous snake?

Pythons are non-venomous constrictors that kill their prey by coiling around it. Venomous snakes, on the other hand, inject venom to subdue their prey.


Both types of snakes can appear similar, so it’s best to have professionals identify them.

Q: Do snakes hibernate?

Snakes don’t hibernate but undergo a process called brumation, where their activity slows down during cooler months. In warmer regions like Townsville, they may still be active but less commonly seen.

Q: Can snakes climb?

Yes, many snakes are excellent climbers! Some species, like tree snakes, are adapted to life in the trees, while others can climb to access food or shelter. This is why roof inspections are sometimes necessary when locating snakes.

Q: How do snakes detect their surroundings?

Snakes use their forked tongues to pick up scent particles in the air, which helps them “taste” their environment. They also have heat-sensing pits that allow them to detect warm-blooded prey, even in the dark.

Myths and Misconceptions About Snakes

Debunking Common Snake Fears and Misunderstandings

Q: Do snakes chase people?

No, snakes do not chase humans. If a snake appears to be moving toward you, it’s likely trying to find an escape route, and you happen to be in its path.

Q: Are snakes aggressive?

Snakes are generally shy and will avoid confrontation whenever possible. They only become defensive when they feel threatened or cornered.

Q: Do all venomous snakes have fangs?

Yes, all venomous snakes have fangs, but the size and placement of these fangs vary between species. Some venomous species, like rear-fanged snakes, are less dangerous to humans because their fangs are located further back in the mouth.

Myth: “Snakes are out to get you”

Fact: Snakes are not aggressive toward humans. They typically avoid us whenever possible. They will only bite in self-defence if they feel threatened or cornered. Snakes are not actively seeking harm but instead are trying to survive like any other animal.

Myth: Snakes can only strike in a straight line

Fact: Snakes can strike from various angles, making them more difficult to avoid than many people think. Their flexibility and quick reflexes allow them to strike from different positions, so it’s important to remain cautious even if a snake appears to be at an angle.

Myth: Snakes are cold-blooded and always slow

Fact: Snakes are indeed cold-blooded, but that doesn’t mean they move slowly. In fact, many snakes are capable of impressive speed, especially when hunting or escaping danger. Their agility makes them effective predators and elusive when threatened.

Myth: You can identify venomous snakes by their colour

Fact: Coloured snakes are not necessarily venomous. While some venomous species may have distinct colours, many harmless snakes can appear similar in colour to dangerous ones. Identifying a snake requires more than just its appearance—knowledge of specific species is crucial.

Myth: Snakes will always return to the same spot after being relocated

Fact: While snakes have a some homing instinct, it is not guaranteed that they will return to the spot they were relocated from. The likelihood of a snake returning depends on factors like the species, distance of relocation, and the availability of suitable habitat and available prey and shelter.

Myth: Snakes cannot hear

Fact: Snakes don’t have external ears, but they can still sense vibrations through the ground. This allows them to “hear” or detect movement and sounds. They are especially sensitive to vibrations created by other animals or potential prey.

Myth: If You See a Baby Snake, the Mother is Nearby

Fact: Unlike many other animals, snakes do not exhibit parental care, and there is no mother snake looking after the baby. Once baby snakes hatch or are born, they are fully independent and must survive on their own. The presence of a baby snake does not indicate the proximity of a mother snake. In fact, most snake species leave their eggs or young immediately after they are laid or born, and they do not care for them.

Myth: Snakes Are Parental and Care for Their Young

Fact: Unlike many other animal species, snakes do not care for their young after they hatch. Most species of snakes are not parental and leave their eggs or young immediately after laying or birth. Once hatched or born, baby snakes are fully independent and must fend for themselves. They rely on instincts for survival, including hunting for food and avoiding predators, with no guidance from their parents.

Education and Community Involvement

How Snakefella Promotes Awareness and Support for Wildlife Conservation

Q: Can I keep a snake as a pet?

Keeping native snakes as pets requires proper permits, training, and suitable housing. Wild snakes should never be taken from their natural habitat, as this is harmful to both the animal and the ecosystem.

Q: Do you provide education about snakes?

Yes! We’re passionate about educating the community about snakes and their role in the environment. We offer workshops, school talks, and community events to teach people about snake safety and conservation. Contact us to book a session.

Q: How can I help protect snakes?

  1. Spread awareness about their ecological importance.
  2. Avoid harming or killing snakes.
  3. Support wildlife conservation efforts.
  4. Report illegal wildlife activities, such as snake poaching or habitat destruction.

Contact Us

We’re here to help with all your snake-related concerns and promote a better understanding of these fascinating reptiles!