27/11/2025
What to do when you see a snake 🐍
As Australia heads into summer, many snake species are emerging from brumation and becoming more active. This means you may be more likely to encounter one.
If you do, WIRES recommends simply backing away and giving the snake plenty of space.
The vast majority of Australian snake species avoid direct encounters with humans when there is an escape route available to them.
If a snake has found its way into your home, we recommend moving all people, children and pets into another room. If it is safe to do so, isolate the snake in its current room and place towels along the bottom of the door.
Do not attempt to handle a snake yourself. Instead, contact WIRES on 1300 094 737 or complete our Report a Rescue form on our website.