The warming weather has seen snake activity increase … and grey nomads are being urged to remain vigilant.
Just a couple of days ago, a bushwalker needed to be winched from Mt Whitfield near Cairns after he was bitten by a snake while hiking on the trail.
It is understood the man was walking along one of the popular Arrow Tracks, located behind the Cairns Botanic Gardens in Edge Hill.
A Queensland Ambulance spokesman said the 20-year-old was about one kilometre from the summit when the incident occurred.
A rescue helicopter was tasked with winching the man out of the area, and two Queensland Fire and Emergency Services crews were at the scene offering assistance.
It is not clear what sort of snake the man was bitten by.
Reptile Rescue senior executive officer Ian Norton said it was important for people to be prepared going into the warmer months. He said keeping your eyes peeled, giving and carrying bandages were three of the key things that people should be doing.
“The important thing is to be mindful of a few acts … wear appropriate clothing when bushwalking, keep your eyes around, don’t creep around on bush tracks … make your presences known,” Mr Norton told the Tasmania Examiner. “If you do see something on the track, give it a wide berth, and walk around it.”
His said hikers should also carry bandages when walking and make sure they know proper first aid.
Reptile Specialist Lana Field says that, when grey nomads first arrive at a campsite, they should always make sure they have shoes on before they exit their vehicle.
“As you are deciding where to set up camp, do a walk around and check for areas that snakes would use as habitat; lawn clippings, garden waste, firewood, long grass, building debris,” she said. “If possible, remove these items – but be sure to wear gloves and enclosed shoes – or choose a different site … and once you have set up camp, remember to keep your screens closed and well sealed.”
Ms Field emphasies that all snakes are protected by law and that it is illegal to kill, injure, interfere, catch, touch or do anything with a snake regardless of where you or it may be.
If you see one just stop and let it go peacefully on its way.
It seems that Ms Field has been writing her article down at the free camp area just out of town…But then again I have spent time in some caravan parks which tick most boxes (apart from any wood)..