The sun sure is bearing down on the Gold Coast this summer. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, people living in Surfers Paradise real estate can expect maximum temperatures of around 30 degrees over the season. While this means it's a great time to serve up some icy drinks or take a swim, it's also important to stay safe. And we're not just talking about the relentless sun.
Snake season
It seems like the blazing heat has been drawing out the Gold Coast's serpentine wildlife. There have been multiple recent sightings of snakes slithering into homes, public spaces and even biting passerbys.
A February 1 article by the Gold Coast Bulletin says that a man was bitten near Sea World, while footage of close encounters with snakes in the Gold Coast have surfaced online.
"The combination of smoking hot days and with the rains has sent them above ground," said Tony Harrison, snake handler for Reptile Relocation and Awareness, mentioning that these creatures are trying to hide from the scorching sun in pools and homes.
Keep the yard tidy
While the snakes people encounter are often harmless, you might still want to discourage these sneaky reptiles from entering your Surfers Paradise real estate.
As mentioned earlier, most of them are simply trying to get away from the heat. With this in mind, the Queensland government recommends these tips to keep them away from your backyard:
Keep your lawn trimmed and short.
When gardening, remember to cover up with gloves, long pants and covered shoes.
Keep piles of wood and other collections of items piled or organised neatly so that animals and snakes can't find a hiding place there.
Don't position your garden beds too close to your home.
Lock down the house
Aside from snakes making a lounge out of your backyard, it's important to make sure they don't enter your actual house. The Queensland government recommends screening all potential entry points, such as door and windows.
On the occasion that a snake does find its way into your house, don't panic. These creatures will always react defensively when people attempt to handle or interfere with them. Instead, close all doors inside the house and leave those leading outside open. This will give them a chance to slither out on their own accord, leaving your Surfers Paradise real estate in peace.
Greenhouses can also be an attractive place for snakes. If you have one, be sure to keep it tidy at all times and have plant trays elevated off the ground. This will ensure that should one be hiding around, you'll be able to spot it in no time.
The outdoors
Of course, it's not just about keeping safe around your property. If you're out on a walk or a hike this summer, there is also the chance you'll encounter a snake. If possible, try to:
Wear covered shoes and trousers.
Stay on clearly defined paths so that you can spot them.
Use a torch at night.
Carry a first-aid kit in case of emergencies.
Thou shalt not kill
Remember that while coming into contact with a snake can be unnerving to say the least, it's always best to evade rather than to get rid of them. These creatures are crucial to the natural ecosystem and habitat and are protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992. Therefore, it's against the law to actually kill, injure or remove snakes from the wild.
Also, these creatures would generally prefer to pull away when intruded upon, but can strike back if they feel threatened.
Settling in Surfers Paradise
Whether you're investing in Main Beach real estate or renting in Surfers Paradise, get connected with Ray White Surfers Paradise. We've got access to a vast range of property in the region to suit whatever need you may have.
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