Whitehorse has a few areas where snakes may be found living naturally. Generally these areas are near waterways. Snakes are relatively uncommon in the suburbs but on hot days, it is worthwhile keeping an eye out for them.

The types of snakes that may be found are the Red-bellied Black Snake, Lowland Copperhead and the Tiger Snake. All three of these species are venomous and must be treated with respect. If you see a snake in a bush-land area, slowly walk away and leave it be.

Managing Snakes

Do not attempt to kill a snake as they are protected under the Wildlife Act (1975) and most snake bites occur when people do the wrong thing. 

Follow the advice if you see a snake in your area.

Location	Responsibility	Contact/Action
Your Property	The resident	If you find a snake on your property you can either leave it be or call a private snake catcher. Council does not provide snake removal services on private land.
Your Neighbour’s Property	Your neighbour	Speak to the property owner about your observations. Direct them to this page for information.
Council Property	Council	If you see a snake in a playground or sports ground, keep an eye on its location from a safe distance and Contact Council.
Telecommunications Pit	The telecommunications company that owns the pit	Report the snake to the faults line of the telecommunications company

Getting Bitten by a Snake

If you or a member of your family is bitten by a snake, seek immediate medical help and call triple zero (000) for an ambulance. If the person collapses or stops breathing, you may need to apply CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) until medical help arrives.

If your pet is bitten, immediately take them to your local vet or an emergency vet. Try to keep the pet as still as possible to reduce the circulation of the venom.

For more information about snake bites:

• Better Health Channel

More information

More information on Victorian snakes:

• Wildlife Victoria website