A Border snake catcher had his first call-out six weeks ago as warmer weather starts to entice snakes out of hibernation.
Tristan Hamilton from Border Snake Rescue said there had been an earlier start to the snake season this year.
"Snake season typically starts around this time of year but they have been out earlier with the warm weather we have been having," he said.
"Six weeks ago I had my first call-out to a six-foot brown snake in central Wodonga.
"The snakes get their sunshine and go back into hiding on the cooler days."
Mr Hamilton has noticed the brown snakes have been on the bigger side this season due to more food being around and the recent mice plague.
Brown snakes, red-bellied black snakes and tiger snakes are the three common snakes found around the Border.
Snakes have recently been spotted around La Maison on the Lincoln Causeway and Willow Park near the skate park. View our online, interactive map here.
Please be careful when out and about, especially in areas with longer grass on warmer days.
There are a few things that you can do to stay safe:
- Stay vigilant
- If you see a snake, stay still or move in the opposite direction
- Do not try and catch or kill a snake
- Reduce the chance of a snake visiting your backyard by getting rid of outdoor rubbish piles, don't leave food scraps around and keeping lawns short
Snakes are protected and it is illegal to catch or kill the reptiles.
Residents are urged to keep a close watch when snakes are spotted and call a catcher.
"Don't corner it, just keep an eye on the snake from a safe distance until a snake handler arrives," Mr Hamilton said.
"It's much quicker and easier for us if you know where it is because if you take your eyes off them they will make an escape and go into hiding."
For snake catching and relocating, call the numbers below:
Tom Nicholson (Bright) - 0481 285 576
Michael Gibson (Bright) - 0413 378 809
Michael Whipps (Mt Beauty) - 0408 123 801
Jarrod Payne (Mt Beauty) - 0408 126 990
Darren Frankland (Wangaratta) - 0412 754 242
Darren Campbell (Yackandandah) - 0438 623 497
Noel Crossman (Wodonga) - 0412 576 541
Tristan Hamilton (Wodonga) - 0431 530 057
Chris Porter (Wodonga) - 0432 175 513
