A screenshot from a video of Neville Ganes preparing to rescue the suspected 'puff adder' that was reported to be hiding under the fridge.
Image: Neville's Snake & Reptile rescue
A HOMEOWNER'S fear of a puff adder under his fridge led to a surprising discovery by a snake rescuer.
Neville’s Snake and Reptile Rescue responded to an unusual call-out on February 18, when a King Williams Town homeowner reported seeing a snake slither under his refrigerator.
The man claimed he had spotted a puff adder inside the house.
Concerned for his family’s safety, he quickly escorted his wife and child out of the house while waiting for the professional help.
When rescuer Neville Ganes arrived, the homeowner showed him a cellphone photo of the suspected snake.
However, the image was unclear, making it difficult to confirm what species the snake was.
Armed with his snake-catching equipment and a flashlight, Ganes carefully inspected the area.
“I looked underneath the refrigerator and found the ‘snake’ that the gentleman saw,” Ganes said.
“It was a pot scourer (pot scraper),” he laughed.
Instead of scales and fangs, the “snake” was simply a cleaning tool lying on the floor.
Ganes said the family was both shocked and relieved by the discovery.
“The family was relieved that it was not a snake, and in future, will keep the ‘pot scraper’ locked inside the cupboard as a keepsake,” he said jokingly.
He said he also used the opportunity to share important safety advice with residents as snake activity increases.
“To manage the increase of snake activity, the rodent population must be controlled,” he said.
“Grass should be kept short, and people should remove rubble, zinc sheet piles, firewood stacks, and any debris where snakes can shelter,” he added.
He also warned residents never to interfere with snakes.
“Never attempt to catch, kill, or handle a snake, as most snakebites occur when people try to interfere with them. Call a professional snake catcher for safe removal,” Ganes advised
“If a snake enters your home, do not approach or try to capture it. Watch it from a safe distance and contact a professional snake catcher.” he added.
Thankfully, no one was harmed - except perhaps a few nerves.