The encounters could be due to a relatively warm winter and early rainfall, according to snake catchers. They have also warned about the growing presence of exotic species in the city and raised concerns about public safety and the potential impact on local ecosystems.

Residents are being urged to clear rubble and other hiding places from properties and limit the presence of rodents, frogs, lizards and other prey that may attract snakes.

Stephan Fourie with a puff adder caught in Bloemfontein. Photo supplied

Bloemfontein snake catcher Stephan Fourie said attempting to capture or kill a snake significantly increases the risk of being bitten. “We average about 350 call-outs a year between all the snake handlers in Bloemfontein.

“At the moment, we are already over 200, so there is a slight increase compared with previous years. We had some very good early rain this year, which means the mating season and other activities have moved forward.

“A total of 96% of snakebite incidents are caused by people trying to kill a snake. People should not approach or attempt to capture it themselves. Snakes don’t attack humans; we are not prey. They are not aggressive; they are defensive. If you leave them in peace, keep an eye on them and phone a snake catcher, you should be fine.”

Bloemfontein is home to several indigenous snake species, including the Cape cobra, puff adder and rinkhals, all of which are venomous and can cause serious or potentially fatal bites. These snakes occur naturally in the area and may be encountered in gardens, homes and surrounding veld, particularly when weather conditions favour increased activity.

A Cape cobra Fourie caught earlier this year. Photo supplied

Eight exotic snakes were removed during call-outs this year, including red-tailed boas, American corn snakes, Californian king snakes and royal pythons, which are commonly kept as pets. Although the exotic snakes found this year were harmless, venomous species pose a serious threat, as South Africa does not have antivenom available for these exotic snakes.

Anyone bitten by a snake should remain calm, contact the nearest hospital or emergency room immediately, and arrange urgent transport. Medical staff should be alerted in advance so they can prepare for treatment.

Residents are warned against applying tourniquets, cutting or sucking the wound, burning or icing the bite, or taking remedies such as activated charcoal. A bite should never be assumed harmless, even if symptoms are initially absent.

Fourie said all the snake catchers in Bloemfontein who have valid permits have normal jobs. “We leave work to remove snakes, and we work on a donation basis, so frequent call-outs and rising fuel costs can put a significant dent in our budgets.”

Residents can learn more about local snakes and responsible safety practices through the African Snakebite Institute website and its ASI Snakes app.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm

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