Published on Friday, 30 October 2026 at 11:26AM
As temperatures rise across the Pilbara, snakes become more active as they emerge to bask, hunt and breed. Activity is typically highest during the warmer months, particularly from spring through to autumn. Most snakes will avoid people if given the opportunity, but encounters can occur in parks, reserves, walking trails, gardens and around homes bordering bushland.
Here’s the best advice for keeping you and your family safe this season!
How to identify a snake presence
While it's best not to approach a snake for identification, signs that a snake may be nearby include:
- Movement through long grass, leaf litter or rocks.
- Shed snake skins.
- Tracks in sandy areas.
- Increased rodent activity, which can attract snakes.
How to avoid snake encounters
When visiting parks, reserves and bushland areas:
- Stay on marked paths and avoid walking through long grass or dense vegetation.
- Wear enclosed footwear when walking outdoors.
- Watch where you place your hands and feet, particularly around rocks, logs and garden beds.
- Never attempt to handle, provoke or capture a snake.
- If you see a snake, remain calm, keep your distance and slowly move away.
Keeping your home safe
- Keep lawns trimmed and gardens tidy.
- Remove piles of timber, metal, debris and other potential hiding places.
- Reduce rodent activity by securing rubbish and pet food.
- Keep sheds and outdoor storage areas organised.
If you believe someone in your household has been bitten, this should be considered a medical emergency:
- Call 000 immediately.
- Keep the person calm and still.
- Apply a firm pressure bandage to the affected limb if possible.
- Immobilise the limb and wait for medical assistance.
- Do not wash the bite site or attempt to catch the snake.
Keeping your pets safe
Dogs are naturally curious and can be at higher risk of snake bites, particularly near bushland reserves and open spaces. To help protect your pets:
- Keep dogs on a lead when walking in reserves and parks.
- Avoid letting pets explore long grass or dense vegetation.
- Keep yards clean and free of potential snake shelters.
- Supervise pets when outdoors, especially during warmer weather.
Signs of a snake bite in pets may include sudden weakness or collapse, vomiting, paralysis or difficulty walking, and/or laboured breathing.
If you suspect your pet has been bitten, keep them as still as possible and seek veterinary assistance immediately.
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