In a startling incident in Sydney's western suburb of Horsley Park, homeowner David Stein uncovered a significant number of venomous red-bellied black snakes residing in his backyard mulch pile. The discovery has prompted discussions about snake behavior and safety in suburban environments.

The Discovery

David Stein first noticed several snakes slithering into his mulch pile and, concerned for his family's safety, contacted Reptile Relocation Sydney, a professional snake-catching service. Snake catcher Dylan Cooper responded to the call, expecting to find a handful of snakes. However, upon closer inspection, Cooper uncovered a total of 102 snakes—five adult females and 97 newborns. Some of the adult snakes even gave birth during the removal process.

Understanding the Behavior

Experts explain that female red-bellied black snakes often congregate in suitable locations to give birth, and mulch piles provide an ideal environment due to their warmth and protection. The unusually high number of snakes in this instance has been attributed to the favorable conditions of the mulch pile, which offered a stable temperature and shelter for the gravid females.

Safety and Precautions

While red-bellied black snakes are venomous, their bites are rarely fatal to humans. Nonetheless, their presence in residential areas poses risks, especially to children and pets. Stein's dog had previously been bitten by a juvenile red-bellied black snake, underscoring the potential dangers. Following the incident, Stein plans to remove the mulch pile to prevent future occurrences.

Relocation Efforts

The captured snakes were safely relocated to a remote area within 20 kilometers of the original site, as mandated by local regulations. This measure ensures the snakes are returned to their natural habitat while minimizing the risk of human interaction.

Community Response

The incident has sparked widespread attention, with many expressing shock at the sheer number of snakes found. Experts emphasize that such occurrences, while alarming, are rare. Homeowners are advised to regularly inspect their properties for potential snake habitats and to contact professionals if they encounter similar situations.