**More than 100 venomous red-bellied black snakes, including babies, were rescued from a Sydney garden in an unprecedented operation by reptile handlers.**
**Massive Snake Rescue in Sydney Yields Over 100 Venomous Snakes**
**Massive Snake Rescue in Sydney Yields Over 100 Venomous Snakes**
**Australian Reptile Handlers Stunned by Record Rescue of Red-Bellied Black Snakes**
In a surprising turn of events in Sydney, reptile experts have successfully rescued a staggering total of 102 venomous snakes from a residential backyard mulch pile. The dramatic operation began after a report of a red-bellied black snake biting a dog, prompting reptile handler Cory Kerewaro and his team to investigate the area.
Upon arrival, Kerewaro's colleague found a significant number of snakes, as what started as a search for a single snake quickly escalated into a full-blown rescue mission. Four of the adult females discovered were pregnant and later gave birth to 97 offspring during the capture, leading to this unusually large haul.
The red-bellied black snake is recognized as one of Australia's most prevalent venomous snakes, although it boasts a notable absence of any recorded human fatalities. Currently, the rescued snakes are under protective quarantine, with plans for their eventual release into a national park as temperatures drop, ensuring a safer environment away from human interactions.
Kerewaro recalled the amazement when his colleague first contacted him, saying, "Mate, I'm going to be here a while. It's a pretty big pile... I'm already over 15 snakes!" It’s certainly been a historic event for the team, who usually capture between five to fifteen snakes in a typical day.
Fortunately, the dog involved in the incident was reported to be "alive and well." This discovery underlines the unique birthing habits of red-bellied black snakes, which often congregate in small groups during childbirth for protection against predators, a trait noted by the Australian Museum.
As the snake handlers prepare for the next steps, legal provisions have been made to allow for the release of these creatures far from urban areas, contributing to their conservation while minimizing risks for local residents.
Upon arrival, Kerewaro's colleague found a significant number of snakes, as what started as a search for a single snake quickly escalated into a full-blown rescue mission. Four of the adult females discovered were pregnant and later gave birth to 97 offspring during the capture, leading to this unusually large haul.
The red-bellied black snake is recognized as one of Australia's most prevalent venomous snakes, although it boasts a notable absence of any recorded human fatalities. Currently, the rescued snakes are under protective quarantine, with plans for their eventual release into a national park as temperatures drop, ensuring a safer environment away from human interactions.
Kerewaro recalled the amazement when his colleague first contacted him, saying, "Mate, I'm going to be here a while. It's a pretty big pile... I'm already over 15 snakes!" It’s certainly been a historic event for the team, who usually capture between five to fifteen snakes in a typical day.
Fortunately, the dog involved in the incident was reported to be "alive and well." This discovery underlines the unique birthing habits of red-bellied black snakes, which often congregate in small groups during childbirth for protection against predators, a trait noted by the Australian Museum.
As the snake handlers prepare for the next steps, legal provisions have been made to allow for the release of these creatures far from urban areas, contributing to their conservation while minimizing risks for local residents.
