Study identifies WA's top snake-sighting hotspots as spring arrives

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 23 Oct, 21:50 · Archive

Joondalup and Geraldton are the most likely locations to encounter snakes as spring temperatures rise.

A new study has identified Western Australia's snake-sighting hotspots as warmer spring weather approaches. Joondalup recorded the highest number of venomous snake sightings in the state with 1,057 recorded incidents, whilst Geraldton ranks in the top 10 locations nationwide for recorded sightings. Brown snakes, desert-banded snakes and whip snakes are the most common species around Geraldton.

The study, conducted by off-road equipment business OCAM4X4 Accessories, also examined snake encounters at camping locations. Geraldton and its eight camping locations topped the Western Australian charts with 185 sightings, whilst closer to Perth, Gidgegannup and Joondalup ranked fourth and fifth.

Experts warn that longer, warmer spring days help re-energise snakes' metabolism, heart rate and digestion after the cooler months when they enter brumation, a hibernation-like state. This increased snake activity coincides with West Australians spending more time outdoors in the bush, on footpaths and at the beach. Marcus Cosentino of Snake Catcher Perth said snakes were 'quite common' across the city and can be found all around Perth, though they typically remain 'out of sight, out of mind for most people'.

How it is being reported

• Snakes in WA: New study outlines top 10 snake spots as Perth Snake catcher Marcus CosentinoAs temperatures rise and West Australians head outdoors, a new study has identified the State’s snake-sighting hotspots.Perth Now · 23 Oct, 21:12
• Snakes in WA: New study outlines top 10 snake spots as Perth Snake catcher Marcus CosentinoAs temperatures rise and West Australians head outdoors, a new study has identified the State’s snake-sighting hotspots.The West Australian · 23 Oct, 21:12

In this story: Joondalup · Geraldton · Perth · Western Australia · Marcus Cosentino · Snake Catcher Perth · OCAM4X4 Accessories

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