A highly venomous eastern brown snake was removed from a schoolyard in Australia by snake catcher Stuart McKenzie. The snake, which measured about four feet in length, was spotted by teachers and quickly approached by McKenzie with a fabric bag in hand. Eastern brown snakes are considered one of the world’s most venomous snakes, with a potent venom that contains neurotoxins and blood coagulants. Despite their dangerous reputation, deaths from eastern brown snake bites are relatively rare thanks to the availability of antivenom and improved medical response times.
The video of McKenzie rescuing the eastern brown snake was shared on Facebook, showing him approaching the snake cautiously and eventually capturing it in the fabric bag. Eastern browns are known to be long and slender snakes, typically reaching lengths of over two meters. They are commonly found in a variety of habitats, including rural and urban areas where they are drawn to rodents. The video demonstrates how McKenzie skillfully catches the snake and releases it into the wilderness away from the schoolyard, allowing it to swiftly disappear into the bushes.
Eastern brown snakes have a naturally nervous disposition and may flatten their necks or rear up when they feel threatened. They are known to be reluctant to bite humans unless provoked, and incidents of bites are rare when snakes are left alone and not harmed. McKenzie’s quick response to the presence of the snake in the schoolyard ensured the safety of the children and the snake itself. The availability of antivenom and prompt medical treatment contribute to the low mortality rate associated with eastern brown snake bites in Australia.
McKenzie, who owns Sunshine Coast Snake Catchers 24/7, is experienced in safely capturing and relocating venomous snakes like the eastern brown. In the video, he can be seen calmly handling the snake and expressing appreciation to the teacher who monitored the snake’s movements to prevent any close encounters with children. The rapid slithering of the snake into the bushes after its release showcases the agility and speed of these reptiles. In the event of a snake bite, immediate pressure bandaging and immobilization of the affected limb are crucial until emergency medical help is available.
Despite their reputation as one of the most dangerous snakes in the world, eastern brown snakes play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling rodent populations. Their presence in both rural and urban areas underscores the need for coexistence and understanding when encountering these reptiles. Educating the public about snake safety, proper snake bite first aid, and the importance of conservation efforts for these species is crucial in minimizing conflicts between humans and snakes. By working with experts like McKenzie and other snake catchers, communities can safely manage encounters with venomous snakes and protect both human and snake populations.
