Tread with caution

As winter ends and the hot weather returns Namibia’s snakes re-emerge after having gone underground during the colder months.
With the ongoing drought in Namibia, the chances of encountering snakes are more likely than usual, according to Namibian snake expert and catcher Francois Theart.
“There is no food or water in the bush, which causes rodents, the main prey of snakes, to move towards human habitat. The snakes follow their prey and this is where the conflict starts.”
However, by following a list of basic tips shared by Theart, and keeping up to date by joining the ‘Snakes of Namibia’ Facebook group, these encounters can be overcome with the minimum of fuss.
Theart and other snake experts are on standby around the clock to catch them in towns and take them back to the veld where they belong.
“Whether we like it or not, snakes are very important to us as they help maintain a healthy balance in the ecosystem,” Theart explains. Moreover, snake venom has played a critical role in the development of a number of medicines.
“Without these misunderstood animals, we might never find a cure for many diseases. It is therefore very important that we conserve these magnificent animals.”


AVOID, AVOID, AVOID


Theart advises that there are no effective snake repellents, but by avoiding certain places that offer suitable hiding places for snakes, encounters can be kept to a minimum.
These include being careful around, or avoiding, places where building materials such as bricks, pipes and roofing sheets are stacked.
Furthermore, avoid compost heaps, rockeries, aviaries, chicken coops, fish ponds and loose rocks, or remain alert as they may provide a source of food or hiding spots for snakes.
Theart says animal feed should be stored in rat-proof containers. “Where there are rats, there are going to be snakes,” he warns.
Keeping doors shut and sealing any cracks or holes through which a snake can enter serve as basic snake-proofing of a building.


SNAKE ALERT


In case a snake is encountered, Theart says the main thing is not to try to kill the snake, as that may result in a bite.
He advises that when encountering a snake, it is best to call professional snake handlers, whose contact details are available on the Facebook site ‘Snakes of Namibia’.
“It is normal to kill snakes out of fear or misunderstanding, however about 50% if all snakebites occur when people try to catch or kill the snake. It is safer for the person and the animal to call in a professional.”
He adds that the best response when you meet a snake is to keep calm. “Stand absolutely still, as most snakes will flee immediately. If the snake stands its ground, however, retreat slowly.”


FALSE MYTHS


Theart says one of the most common false myths about snakes is that they chase people.
“In my ten years of catching some of Africa’s deadliest, including black mambas, I have never been chased by a snake. Most snakes will try to get away when encountered and will only defend themselves when they feel threatened.”
Another myth is that snakes have nests. It is also untrue that snakes travel in pairs, and if one is seen, another must be nearby.
“This is not true. Snakes are loners and will only be seen together during mating season.”
Theart has listed a number of simple steps to take in order to avoid snakebites.


STAY ALERT


These include wearing proper clothing when walking in the veld, including long trousers and boots, using a flashlight when walking at night and avoiding long grass.
He says that simply staying alert and watching your step when walking over loose rocks and logs could avoid unfortunate encounters.
When collecting firewood at dusk or at night, be very careful.
Importantly, “do not pick up any snake, no matter how harmless it may seem … do not pick up what appears to be a dead snake, as some venomous species fake death.”


FIRST AID


If, despite all precautions, a person does fall victim to snakebite, it is critical to keep the person calm and reassured, he says. If a hospital is within 40 minutes’ drive from the scene, it is critical not to waste time with first aid but rather rush them to the health centre.
Basic first-aid tips include removing all jewellery and tight clothing, laying the person down and keeping them as still as possible. Elevate the affected limb and transport them to the nearest hospital.
“Pressure bandages should only be applied to black mamba, cape cobra and anchietas cobra bites,” he emphasises.
There are four big no-no’s when it comes to snakebites.
Do not cut or suck, apply a tourniquet, apply ice or give the victim alcohol or inject anti-venom as a first-aid measure.
If a person gets snake venom in the eye, quickly rinse it out with running water for about 10 to 15 minutes and avoid rubbing the eyes.
Should anyone in Windhoek encounter a snake, contact Theart at 081 290 0343 or join the Facebook page for numbers of snake catchers elsewhere the country.
JANA-MARI SMITH