Durban pollution could attract MORE snakes to properties
Snake expert Nick Evans has shared insight into how the growing pollution in Durban could attract more snakes into people’s homes.
Durban snake rescuer Nick Evans has acknowledged rumours of a “snake infestation” and has attempted educate the public on the matter.
EThekwini’s municipal strike that commenced on February 27 has resulted in an accumulation of rubbish bags on properties and designated dumping sites.
To alleviate the build-up pressure, the municipality recently opened up landfill sites to the public.
INCREASE IN INVASIVE RATS
Evans says that with all the rubbish around, there is likely to be an increase in invasive rats, which could attract more rodent-eating snakes to properties.
This does not necessarily mean an explosion in snake numbers, he explained.
“Snakes breed at certain times of the year. Most mate in spring, some in winter, but not when opportunities arise, such as now,” he told IOL.
“It does however mean we could possibly see more snakes being attracted to properties due to the current situation.”
Durban is well known for its healthy snake population, due to its many reserves, valleys and lush greenbelts.
Evans notes that humans also create appealing habitats for the reptiles, like leaving piles of wood around or having messy storerooms.
DURBAN POLLUTION CAN PROVIDE SHELTER FOR SNAKES
Dumping rubbish over fences into the bush can also provide shelter for snakes, and breeding grounds for rats.
In spite of this, Evans said that over the weekend and last week, snake activity had in fact been far quieter than normal.
“I’m not sure how one declares an infestation from a scientific point of view,” Evans said.
Evans dispelled other messages doing the rounds on social media, like the effect of heatwaves on snake behaviour.
“Yes, it’s been very hot. Too hot for the snakes, which would rather move early and later in the day,” he explained.
“They most certainly do not become more aggressive in hot weather. Sure, they’ve got more energy in the heat, but that just means they’re quicker to move away from you.”
Evans also said that repellents do not work, and suggested people rather focus on bigger dangers.
“Be far more vigilant of human intruders, as they are far, far more dangerous,” he concluded.