Snakes of Durban: Myths, facts & safety tips
Snakes are part of Durban’s ecosystem, but do we really need to fear them? Snake expert Nick Evans joins 'The Green Scene' podcast to debunk myths, identify snakes to watch for, and share tips on handling encounters with them.
Snakes in Durban are more common than most people realise, but how we react to them can make all the difference. Whether you panic at the sight of a snake or are fascinated by them, understanding these reptiles can help us coexist safely.
In the latest episode of 'The Green Scene', renowned Durban-based snake rescuer Nick Evans joins hosts Green Corridors’ Andiswa Dlamini, Duncan Pritchard, and Sharlene Versfeld to talk about Durban’s snake population, common myths, and what to do if you come across one.
Snakes in Durban: Which ones to watch for?
Not all snakes are dangerous. In fact, many of Durban’s most common snakes, such as the spotted bush snake and brown house snake, are harmless and play an important role in controlling rodent populations.
These non-venomous snakes are vital to our ecosystem, helping to keep pests in check.
However, some species do require caution, including the black mamba and Mozambique spitting cobra. These venomous snakes should be left undisturbed and managed by professionals if they venture into our spaces.
Nick Evans points out that most snake fears stem from misinformation. “People think snakes are aggressive, but in reality, they just want to avoid us.”
What to do if you encounter a snake
Stay calm and keep your distance.
Do not try to kill or catch the snake.
If necessary, contact a professional, who can safely relocate it.
This episode also offers advice on how to handle situations where your pet encounters a snake, including recognising the signs of a bite and acting quickly to ensure the safety of both your pets and local wildlife.
Understanding snakes' role in the environment
Snakes play an essential role in our ecosystem by controlling rodent populations and maintaining balance. Instead of fearing them, it's important to appreciate their role and understand their behaviour.
Education is key to dispelling myths about snakes and promoting a safer, more peaceful coexistence.
Listen to the full episode of 'The Green Scene' below.
You can call Nick Evans on 072 809 5806 or email him at [email protected].
'The Green Scene' is produced by East Coast Radio in partnership with Durban-based NPO Green Corridors.
Meet the hosts of 'The Green Scene' podcast
Andiswa Susan Dlamini is the Tourism Operations Manager at Green Corridors having worked there since its inception. She cut her teeth at the various Green Corridors sites where she helped manage and co-ordinate activities and has an intimate knowledge of its various operations. She is passionate about her role and helping connect people to the various Green Corridors sites. Andiswa is mum to a fast-growing teenager.
Duncan Pritchard heads up tourism product development, project management, planning and marketing at Green Corridors and is an independent sustainability practitioner with a special interest in niche ecotourism markets, avitourism, rural community development and related projects. His work aims at social, environment and economic development using tourism as a tool. He founded ETC-Africa a consultancy specialising in sustainability, ecotourism, conservation and greenhouse gas reporting. He is a registered carbon auditor and founder of the Unearthed academy for social entrepreneurship. He works on sustainability-related projects locally and internationally with groups ranging from small non-profits to local government to multi-national companies around Africa.
Sharlene Versfeld is a well-known Durban communications consultant who is also a qualified nature guide, nature enthusiast, and keen conservationist who works with Green Corridors. She loves trail running, hiking and walking, adventures, and travel, having done some iconic overland Africa trips with her family. She is married to an “IT Geek” and has two young adult children.