IT may be commonly mistaken for its deadly cousin the eastern brown snake, but the often derided yellow-faced whip snake is nothing to worry about, according to Brenton Asquith, the owner-operater of The Reptile Dysfunction and Taree's resident snake catcher.
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Brenton has endured a busy start to the snake season this year, with hot weather and mating season drawing the creatures out from their winter hiding spots.
It means Brenton has already had several days where he has received up to 15 calls from people looking to have a snake removed from their property.
The yellow-faced whip snake is just one of the Manning Valley's many species of snakes that Brenton has been busy catching at various homes in the region.
The whip snake pictured is one Brenton had caught earlier that day before bringing it to the Times office.
It is only mildly venomous, with the symptoms of the bite similar to a wasp sting.
Two snake incidents have gone viral on social media in the area over the past week, with a red-bellied black snake sliding into a cafe on Victoria Street and another snake being spotted on a busy day at Black Head Beach.
Brenton said there are some easy tips to stay snake safe in summer.
People working outdoors should wear baggy long pants and gloves when gardening, he suggested.
He also emphasised the need for households to have a snake bite kit with a pressure bandage.
"That can and will save your life," Brenton said of the pressure bandage, which is used to restrict movement and blood flow in the bitten area.
Most importantly Brenton said was to remain still when in the immediate presence of a snake.
"As soon as you move your feet, you're a threat," he said.
Snakes on the move were usually looking for a mate or trying to find shade, said Brenton.
Anyone needing a snake removed should contact a trained professional such as Brenton on 0434 490 133.
lachlan.leeming@fairfaxmedia.com.au
