A Penrith homeowner received an unwelcome surprise after noticing a long brown snake moving quietly through the garden near the house. Concerned that it might disappear beneath the deck, the resident kept a safe distance and contacted Harley from Snakes in the City. Harley arrived promptly, assessed the surroundings and carefully located the snake before it could enter a more difficult hiding place. The snake appeared consistent with an eastern brown snake (Pseudonaja textilis), although precise identification of similar-looking brown snakes can require close examination by an experienced handler.
The photograph shows Harley calmly controlling the snake with professional handling equipment as he prepares it for removal. Eastern brown snakes are highly venomous, fast-moving reptiles and should never be approached, cornered or handled by an untrained person. Harley’s extensive experience, qualifications and understanding of snake behaviour allow him to work methodically while protecting residents, pets and the animal. Once secured, the snake was transported away from the premises for lawful and humane release in appropriate habitat.
When a snake is discovered around a home or business, people should move children and pets indoors, stay several metres away and avoid making sudden movements. Do not attempt to strike the snake, trap it under a container or chase it into bushes, as this can increase the risk of a defensive bite and make the snake harder to locate. From a safe position, watch where it goes and call a professional snake catcher immediately. A photograph taken from a safe distance may also help the handler prepare for the call-out.
Snakes in the City covers the whole Greater Sydney area, including Western Sydney, the North Shore, the Northern Beaches, the Hills District, the Hawkesbury, the Eastern Suburbs and southern Sydney. Harley is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for prompt, professional and affordable snake removal from homes, gardens and commercial premises. For urgent assistance from an experienced Sydney snake catcher, call Harley on 0411 103 488.