A snake catcher in Sydney recently shared a striking video documenting an unexpected abundance of snakes recovered from a woodpile in Horsley Park. After being called to remove red-bellied black snakes spotted in a mulch pile, the team anticipated finding four snakes; however, they were astonished to discover a staggering total of 102, including 97 newborns and five adults. The emergence of these snakes coincided with a time when female red-bellies often congregate at shared birthing sites. The snake catcher, Dylan, noted that within moments of starting the job, it became clear that the situation was unusual, as snakes continually surfaced from the pile.
Red-bellied black snakes, while venomous, are typically non-aggressive unless provoked. Although they are responsible for numerous bites annually, fatalities remain very uncommon. This incident highlights the importance of contacting professional snake handlers when encountering these reptiles, whether it’s one or a hundred. The snake catcher’s remarkable find serves as a reminder of nature’s surprises and the need for caution when dealing with potentially dangerous wildlife.